Oshawa library the next to launch mobile Wi-Fi hot spot lending service

The service, which follows a popular Toronto library program, gives those who don't have internet at home unlimited access for a week.

Thestar.com
March 19, 2018
By Reka Szekely

Oshawa residents who don't have access to the internet at home can now check out a mobile hot spot from their local library giving them unlimited internet access for a week.

The Oshawa Public Libraries launched the program earlier this month with 10 mobile Wi-Fi hot spots.

"Libraries always try to be an equalizer and providing access to the internet for people who can't afford it, it's something that's important for libraries … it's very expensive to have the internet at home, it's still costing you at least $50 a month," said Tracy Munusami, manager of service excellence for the Oshawa Public Libraries. She adds that the Toronto library launched a similar program a couple of years ago and it proved popular, prompting other libraries to follow.

Oshawa was able to purchase the hot spots for the pilot project through support from Friends of the Library.

Munusami explains that library customers will be available to check the hot spots out for up to a week. Customers must be at least 18-years-old to check them out and they'll be available through all the branches and they can be placed on hold.

Up to 15 devices can connect to each hot spot and the library does not monitor traffic on the devices and there are no content filters. However, the library is conducting a survey for users where people can voluntarily share how they used the hot spots.

"We're encouraging people to fill out the survey after taking out the hot spot and that's to determine what the outcome is, how it affected their lives," said Munusami. "Hopefully, positively. If we get a good response, hopefully we can get more."

There is an increasing number of library services available online in Oshawa including kids' tutoring and homework help, movie streaming and access to databases.

Judging by customers' regular use of internet services within the library, Munusami believes there is a need for the hot spots within the community.

"When we open in the morning, tons of people are coming in and a lot of people are coming in to access their banking information or to fill out forms they need to get government assistance, so really essential services," she explained.