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Ten New T-Mobile Hotspots!

Thanks to the Mass Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) we now have ten T-Mobile hotspots for loan to patrons!

A hotspot is a device that connects to the internet via cell phone service (in this case, T-Mobile) and will act as a Wi-Fi network wherever you are; you just have to have a device (cell phone, laptop, tablet, etc.) that can connect to Wi-Fi. Staff has been testing them out over the last few weeks, and we've had service all over - even up in Florida!

The MBLC has distributed over 3000 hotspots to approximately 220 public libraries for loan to library users. Funded through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the hotspot lending program focuses on IMLS' primary goal for these funds, digital inclusion.

T-Mobile coverage map: Check here to see if there is coverage where you plan to use the hotspot. Pro Tip: Drop a "pin" by clicking on the map to note your location; you'll then see more info about connection quality, and device compatibility.

Hotspot Lending Policy: Hotspots are available to patrons 17 years an older. All must agree to this policy when borrowing. (We'll have a copy of this for you when you come to borrow one.)

T-Mobile Hotspot details:

• Filtering is on by default using T-Mobile’s content filtering for education. Borrowers may request that filtering be disabled when borrowing a device. The library will not ask for a stated reason. Ask when checking out.
• Each hotspot will connect up to 10 devices. 
• Loans are for 3 weeks, with one 3-week renewal. If overdue, the hotspot will be disconnected, and become unusable.
• Return to the NAPL Reference Desk, NOT the outdoor drop box or to another library. 
• Loss of hotspot incurs a $30 fee to the borrower. Do not loan it to other people while you have it checked out.

More info...