Additional Details

Thanks to a grant provided by SLNC ADAPTS, Onslow County residents will now be able to borrow the internet just like a book. Mobile hotspots provide 24/7 access to the Internet with unlimited data.

What is a mobile hotspot?   A mobile hotspot is a portable Wi-Fi device that allows you to carry a portable Internet source with you wherever you go. With a mobile hotspot, you will have wireless internet access in your car, at home or anywhere else within the continent of the USA. It does not need to be plugged into a data port and you do not need a wireless or Internet subscription to use it. 

How does it work? The hotspot will provide Internet access to smartphones, tablets, and other wireless-enabled devices through a cellular network. A hotspot can support up to 10 devices at a time and provide unlimited Internet service. Service is dependent on the availability of the network where the hotspot is being used. 

Where can I check out a mobile hotspot? Mobile hotspots are available at all 4 Onslow County Library locations for check out. Hotspots are available on a first come first serve basis and cannot be placed on hold.   

How long can I check out a hotspot? 
Mobile hotspots will check out for a period of two weeks (14 days). 

Can I renew? 
Hotspots cannot be renewed.   

How do I return the mobile hotspots? 
Mobile hotspots must be returned in-person to the Circulation Desk at the library where it was checked out. Staff will inspect the hotspot and components (power adapter, cord, and case) for condition or missing parts upon return. 

Do I need to charge the mobile hotspot before I return it? 
 Yes, please fully recharge the mobile hotspot before you return it to the loaning library.  

What if I have the mobile hotspot past the due date? 
 Service will be disconnected on day 15.  You are responsible for each day that the mobile hotspot is kept past the due date.  If a mobile hotspot is not returned within seven (7) days of the due date, the maximum overdue fine and the replacement cost of the hotspot and components will be billed to your account. You must return the mobile hotspot with all components for the library to consider the item checked in and returned. 

Daily Overdue Fine …………………………………………………………………………………….$0.50 
Maximum Overdue Fine …………………………………………………………………………….$11.00 
If not returned  
Hotspot + Components + Case + Maximum Overdue Fine+ Processing……….$134.00 

What happens if the mobile hotspot is lost or damaged? 
You will be billed for the mobile hotspot and/or any components not returned or returned damaged. Replacement costs: 
Mobile Hotspot Unit: $79.99 
Power Adapter/Cord: $10.00 
Case: $30.00
 

What information about my internet usage, if any, is tracked by the library or the service provider? 
Your internet usage is not tracked by the library or the service provider. 

Is the mobile hotspot secure? 
Hotspots are unsecured, wireless networks and any information being sent or received over the network could potentially be intercepted by another wireless user. Mobile hotspot borrowers are cautioned against transmitting their credit card information, passwords and other sensitive, personal information while using any wireless network, and do so at their own risk. 

Is the mobile hotspot filtered?    
All hotspots provided by OCPL include CIPA compliant content filtering. Borrowers are entirely responsible for any content accessed through a mobile hotspot. Mobile hotspot borrowers are responsible for protecting children from inappropriate content. Mobile hotspot users should refrain from online activity that violates federal, state, or local laws. 

How much data can I use? 
The mobile hotspots are on unlimited data plans managed by the Library. 

What do I do if I successfully connected, however, I have slow-to-no Internet access? 
The mobile hotspots gain Internet access through cell towers. If the mobile hotspot has no signal from a cell tower, it will not be able to give you Internet access. Check the front of the mobile hotspot and look for signal bars. If no bars are found, the device has no signal. Turn the device off and back on to try and gain Internet access. If signal bars do not appear, you may be in a dead zone.  

How long does the battery last? 
The device’s battery life will vary depending on use but can be recharged. 

How do I disconnect a personal device from the mobile hotspot? 
The mobile hotspot does not have the ability to forget or disconnect devices from itself. You must manually go into the Wi-Fi settings on your device and “forget” the mobile hotspot to disconnect. 

Can I use the mobile hotspot outside the U.S.? 
No, the mobile hotspots only work in the U.S.ca 

Borrowing Requirements:

• Must have a OCPL library card in good standing
• Must be 18 years or older to check out a hotspot 
• 1 hotspot checkout per person/household at a time 
• 14-day checkout 
• No renewals or holds 
• Hotspots are deactivated if overdue 
• $.50 late fee per day 

Allow 24 hours for processing when returning.