Mobile Wireless Hotspot Lending Policy
Purpose
In fulfilling the Library’s mission to provide access to information and educational resources, Bossard Memorial Library lends mobile wireless hotspots to Library patrons through the “Wi-Fi To Go” service.
Terms and Conditions
A “hotspot” consists of the mobile wireless hotspot device itself, as well as its charger and case. When a patron borrows a mobile hotspot, the patron’s use of the equipment is available under the following terms and conditions. These terms and conditions are in addition to the standard Library policies (notably the Library’s Electronic Resources Policy) and other terms and conditions described below for which the user is responsible.
In order to borrow a hotspot, patrons must be 18 years of age or older and have a Bossard Library card (in good standing). At the time of checkout, the borrowing patron must present his/her library card and state-issued ID. Upon checkout, Library staff will confirm, in the presence of the borrowing patron, that all items are present in the hotspot kit. The patron must sign the Library’s Hotspot Agreement before a hotspot can be checked out. Only one hotspot may be borrowed on a patron’s account at any one time. The loan period for the hotspot is 14 days* with no grace period and no renewals.
*Effective July 1, 2022: In order to provide library patrons with more equitable service in terms of the mobile hotspot lending program, the loan period for the patron's hotspot will be designated as 14 days or 90 days and will be assigned randomly based on the specific hotspot available at the time the patron's hold request is filled.
The Library will accept holds on the hotspot. Patrons will be notified by phone only when their hold is ready for pick-up. Patrons will have 48 hours from the time of this notification call to check out the hotspot, after such time it will be released to another patron. This hold period may be extended, at the discretion of the Library, due to Library hours of operation.
Overdue hotspots will be deactivated at closing on the day the hotspot is due. Overdue fines will accrue at $2.50 per day up to the maximum replacement cost of the hotspot. Patrons are not permitted to return the hotspot to the Library’s book drop. Rather, hotspots must be returned directly to a Library staff member, who will verify that all components of the hotspot are accounted for before checking it in from the borrowing patron’s account. The hotspot will not be considered returned until all components of the hotspot are returned.
By borrowing and initiating use of the Library’s hotspot, the user agrees to abide by the Library’s policies and rules, and agrees to hold the Library and its agents harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities, directly or indirectly, relating to the use of the Library’s hotspot and internet access provided by the Library. Deliberate altering of any files or modifying the configuration of Library-owned equipment is strictly prohibited.
Internet service relies on cell tower technology and coverage. Service outside the continental United States is prohibited; any fees associated with use outside of this area will be the responsibility of the borrower. User experience can vary based on location. The Library is not responsible for personal information shared over the internet or for information or websites accessed. The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages, or expense resulting from the use of the hotspot. A hotspot can provide internet access for up to 15 devices.
The borrowing patron will be responsible for lost or damaged hotspots and accessories (includes theft thereof). Patrons must be mindful of current replacement costs of mobile hotspots and accessories before borrowing, as he or she will be responsible for paying the actual replacement cost of a damaged or lost hotspot device or accessories. If the Library is able to replace the lost or damaged hotspot and/or accessories at no charge to the Library, patron will be charged $1.50 per day (up to the full retail cost of the item) until replacement device and/or accessories are placed into service for the next borrower.
Hotspots must be kept in a temperature-controlled environment (not left in vehicles or in extreme temperatures).
Parents/guardians are responsible for the use of the Hotspot by minors.
Unlawful use of the internet or use that violates the Library’s Electronic Resources Policy is prohibited and may result in the loss of privileges. The Library prohibits the use of its devices for the display or downloading of pornographic or obscene materials.
For assistance in the operation of the Library’s Hotspots, borrowers may call the Library’s Reference Desk during normal business hours.
Adopted by Board: Feb. 14, 2017
Amended: May 9, 2017
Amended: February 13, 2018
Amended: April 23, 2018
Amended: March 12, 2019
Updated: June 30, 2022