Borrow a Hotspot

Check Out Free Internet with Hotspots from the Library
What is a Wireless Hotspot?

A hotspot is a small, portable device that allows you to connect to wi-fi internet from a computer, tablet, smartphone, or other internet-connecting device. Our wireless hotspots essentially let you “borrow the internet” for free to use wherever you choose!

Where Can I Use a Wireless Hotspot?

You can use the hotspot in your car, at home, at work, or outdoors – almost anywhere in the United States where T-Mobile has coverage.

Who is eligible to borrow a Hotspot?

Hotspot borrowers must be 18 years old and in good standing with the library.
Only one hotspot is allowed per household.

How many devices can be connected to the Hotspot at one time?

Each hotspot will support up to 10 connected devices.

How long can I borrow a Hotspot?

Hotspots may be borrowed for 14 days. If the hotspot is not returned within 3 days after the due date, service will be turned off and the hotspot will become unusable. Renewals are not permitted.

How do I check out and return a Hotspot from the library?

Hotspots must be borrowed from and returned to the library circulation desk.

CLICK TO CHECK HOTSPOT AVAILABILITY IN THE CATALOG.

Please return the hotspot in person to a staff member at the same library location where you borrowed it, so they can clear it from your library card and get it ready for the next person. Do NOT place the hotspot in the book drop.

Hotspots should be returned with the power cord, instructions, and carrying case to the library in the same good working condition as they were when checked out. Please return the hotspot fully charged.

What if I don’t have a device to use with the Hotspot?

We have Chromebook laptops available which can be checked out with our Hotspots. For more information, please visit our webpage all about Chromebooks.

How do I use the Hotspot?
  • Turn on the hotspot by pressing and holding the power button on the side of the hotspot for 3 seconds.
  • The readout window will display a welcome message to indicate that it is on.
  • Follow the prompts to access the library network name and password.
  • Locate the network on your device and select it – when prompted, enter password.
  • When not in use, turn off the hotspot by pressing, and holding, the power button

Remember to charge the hotspot to ensure that it is available for you when you want to access your devices. To charge the hotspot, plug the power adapter into the hotspot and plug into an outlet. The readout window will indicate the battery charge amount.

Troubleshooting / Help
Where can I find the Hotspot network on my device?

Windows PC / Chromebook

  • Click Wireless Network Connection on the taskbar to view available networks
  • Choose Springfield Library from the list of available networks
  • Enter the password as listed on the display of the hotspot (click the power button quickly while the display is on to view it).

Apple Mac

  • Choose Apple Menu > System Preferences, then click Network
  • Click Wi-Fi in the list, then click Advanced
  • Choose Springfield Library from the list of available networks
  • It the network you expect to see isn’t in the preferred networks list, click the Add button at the bottom of the list, then click Show Networks, click the network you want to add to the list, then click Join.
  • Enter the password as listed on the display of the hotspot (click the power button quickly while the display is on to view it).

Android Device, Apple iPad, or iPhone

  • Go to Settings > Wi-Fi
  • Choose Springfield Library from the list of available networks
  • Enter the password as listed on the display of the hotspot (click the power button quickly while the display is on to view it).
Charging

The hotspot can run on battery for about 8 hours. More connected devices will drain the battery more quickly. When possible, keep the hotspot plugged in with the included AC Charger. (Do not substitute another charger.)

No Signal or Very Slow?

Check the number of bars on the front display.

Hotspot Not Working?

If the hotspot doesn’t work, or you have any technical questions,
call T-Mobile directly at: 844-341-4834
This number can always be found on the back of your hotspot.

If the hotspot is damaged, or not working, return it to the library circulation desk and report the nature of the damage to a staff person.

Terms & Conditions for Using Wireless Hotspots

Hotspot borrowers must sign a Borrower’s Agreement. While checked out, the hotspot remains the responsibility of the borrower. Borrowers will adhere to the library’s internet acceptable use policy when using the mobile hotspot. Any attempt to alter the configuration of the hotspot is strictly prohibited and may result in loss of borrowing privileges.

Hotspots are filtered by default using T-Mobile’s content filtering for education. Borrowers may request that hotspot filtering be disabled when borrowing a device. The Library will not ask for a reason for disabling the filter.

Hotspot users are accessing the internet through the T-Mobile network, not the Library’s network. The Library is not responsible for any files, data, or personal information accessed/transmitted using the hotspot.

The Library will have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of the mobile hotspots, including loss of data, or privacy invasions. Those who use the hotspots do so at their own risk and assume full liability for their actions.

Illegal acts involving Library equipment or services may also be subject to prosecution.

Hotspot Borrower’s Agreements can be downloaded below, with multiple languages available.