More than just books: Georgina library lending mobile Wi-Fi hotspots

Check email, play online games, stream movies through Georgina library hotspot lending program

Yorkregion.com
May 4, 2021
Amanda Persico

To better serve the community during as the pandemic rolls on, the Georgina Public Library are now lending mobile Wi-Fi hotspots to Georgina library cardholders.

"The pandemic has highlighted many inequalities, including lack of internet access," said Georgina library board chairperson Mary Catherine Macaluso.

"As patrons are currently not able to use library computers or in-branch Wi-Fi, it is even more important help residents get online."

What is a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot?
It’s a device the size of a deck of cards that provides unlimited Wi-Fi internet access in Ontario.

The hotspot can be used to enjoy the internet, send email, watch online movies, listen to music, play online games and connect with others using apps such as FaceTime or Duo.

Who can borrow a mobile hotspot?
Georgina Public Library cardholders who are at least 16 years or older. Only one hotspot can be borrowed per household at one time.

How much does it cost?
Borrowing is free. And so is the data used.

Although the library is currently running a fine-free pilot project, hotspots are subject to lost or damage charges.

There are fees for missing or broken items including the hotspot device, case, charger, charging cable or SIM card ranging from $10 to $200.

How do I borrow a hotspot?
All three branches of the public library -- Keswick, Pefferlaw and Peter Gzowski (Sutton) -- have hotspots available.

Hotspots can be found in the library catalogue under "mobile Wi-Fi hotspot."

Residents can place a hold on a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. When the hotspot is available, residents will be notified to pickup the device during curbside pickup hours. Library staff will teach you how to turn on, connect and use the hotspot.

Hotspot devices are to be returned during curbside hours -- do not put the hotspot in the book return.

How long can I borrow the device?
Three weeks.

How many devices can connect to the hotspot?
Up to 15 different devices.

The Wi-Fi strength will get weaker depending on how many devices are connected and how they are used. Streaming movies or online gaming use more Wi-Fi strength.

Will the Georgina Public library track how I use hotspot?

The library does not have access to collect internet usage and information will not be provided to the internet service provider.

The library does keep a record of who checks out a hotspot during the checkout period.

Personal identifiable information is removed from records once the hotspot is returned.

The only information collected by the library include total amount of data sent and received by each device; and anonymous circulation data about the hotspot devices.

The Internet Service Provider is not allowed to use super cookies or ad-targeting programs to identify or track your internet usage.

For more information, visit www.georginalibrary.ca.