This Hotspot Program supports the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners’ goal to Advance Equitable Access to Resources by promoting “excellent connectivity and technology infrastructure, training, and support frameworks to equitably meet the needs of library users in Massachusetts” and the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ American Rescue Plan Act Objective 1.1 to advance digital inclusion.
Who Can Borrow a Hotspot?
Any Massachusetts resident with a library card from a certified Massachusetts library is eligible to borrow a hotspot. Registration in the library system is required if a patron doesn’t have a current library card.
Hotspot borrowers must be 17 years or older and in good standing with the library.
Only one hotspot is allowed per household. Each hotspot will support up to 10 connected devices.
For How Long?
Hotspots may be borrowed for 3 weeks. One renewal is permitted.
Returns
Hotspots should be returned with the power cord, SIM card, battery and case to the Library in the same good working condition as it was when it was checked out.
If the hotspot is not returned within 7 days after the due date, service will be turned off and the hotspot will become unusable.
If the hotspot is damaged or not working, return it to the library desk. Report the nature of the damage to a staff person.
Loss or Damage.
Patrons will not be held monetarily responsible for loss or damage, though borrowing privileges may be affected.
A revocation of hotspot borrowing privileges may be appealed by request to the Library Director.
Acceptable Use
Borrowers will adhere to the library’s internet use policy when using the mobile hotspot.
While checked out, the hotspot remains the responsibility of the borrower. Borrowers should not lose control of the device by lending to friends or associates.
Any attempt to alter the configuration of the hotspot is strictly prohibited and may result in loss of borrowing privileges.
Hotspot Availability
Hotspots may be reserved –just like a book– through the library catalog, or by calling the library during normal business hours: (413) 587-1011.
The hotspot should be picked up within 7 days, or it will be set aside for the next user.
Hotspots should be returned to a library service desk. Do NOT place the hotspot in the book drop.
Problems?
Direct borrower technical support is provided by T-Mobile to library hotspot borrowers at: (844) 341-4834, or by calling the library reference desk at: (413) 587-1012 or emailing the library at reference@forbeslibrary.org.
Disclaimers
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.
Hotspot users are accessing the internet through the T-Mobile network, not the Library’s network.
Illegal acts involving Library equipment or services may also be subject to prosecution.