Mobile Hotspot Lending – FAQs

 

Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots Cannot

  • Send/receive text messages.
  • Travel outside of the Continental USA.
  • Be Placed on Hold or Renewed

Who can Borrow a Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot?

  • Anyone 18 years or older with a library card in good standing can borrow a Wi-Fi Hotspot. You may check out one (1) device per household at any given time.

 What if the Mobile Hotspot Prompts Me to Update the Software?

  • Please do so. The software upgrade process only takes a few minutes.

Is the Connection to the Hotspot Device Secure?

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

Is the Library Mobile Hotspot Filtered?  Are there any Restrictions on Data or Internet Use?

  •  Data usage is unlimited, but the content is filtered to not allow web access to Adult content (pornography) or malware. Hotspot internet usage is filtered in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).  The Library does not track or collect data on which sites you visit or where you are physically located.  The Library is not responsible for files, data or personal information accessed or transmitted using the Mobile Hotspot device.  By borrowing the Hotspot device, you are agreeing that you will not take part in any illegal activities.

What is the Coverage Area of the Library Mobile Hotspot?

  • Verizon is the nation’s largest 4G LTE network with North Carolina being one of the best coverage areas. However, your area could potentially be in a dead zone.  You can view the Verizon Coverage Map to check your coverage area.      

Is There a Cost Associated with Using the Mobile Hotspot device?

  • Data is unlimited and provided by the Verizon network. You will not be charged for using this device.

How many Devices can be Connected to the Mobile Hotspot device?

  • You can connect up to 15 devices to your hotspot. The connection speed may slow down as more devices are connected.

 What if I Lose or Damage the Mobile Hotspot device?

  • If you lose or damage the hotspot, you will be charged a replacement fee. The replacement fee for lost or damaged items are:

Mobile Hotspot Device         $100.00

Hotspot Carry Case                $15.00

USB Power Cord Adapter        $5.00

What happens if I do not return the Mobile Hotspot device by the Due Date?

  • The device will be deactivated one (1) day after it is due.
  • You will be charged $1.00 per day the Hotspot device is not returned after the original checkout period.
  • If the Hotspot device is not returned within 42 days, the total replacement cost of $120.00 will be billed to your library account.

What If my Internet Signal Strength is Weak?

  • For best results, move the hotspot closer to where you will be using the device. If you move between rooms during the day, your signal strength may be affected if you get too far from the hotspot.  The physical location of the Hotspot device can determine the strength of the signal from the cell tower.

Can I Leave the Battery Plugged In?

No.  Unplug the hotspot device when it is fully charged.  It should look like this   If you leave the device plugged in when it is fully charged, it will damage the battery over time.  This can cause the battery to stop working.

What if I have successfully connected; however, I have slow-to-no Internet Access?

  • The hotspots gain internet access through Verizon cell towers. If the hotspot has no signal from Verizon, it will not be able to give you internet access.  Check the hotspot for signal bars.  If no bars are found, the device has no signal and should be turned off, then back on.  If signal bars do not appear, you may be out of the Verizon network coverage area.
  • For Technical Support, call Verizon at (800) 922-0204.

Device Information

  • You can access full documentation for the Verizon Jetpack Hotspot 8800L on the Verizon website.

 What if I Need Help Connecting to my Device?

  • If you need help connecting your personal device to the hotspot, please call the library and speak with a staff member.
  • Please feel free to call the Granville County Library System:
    • Richard Thornton Library        (919) 693-1121
    • South Branch Library              (919) 528-1752
    • Berea Branch Library             (919) 693-1231
    • Stovall Branch Library            (919) 693-5722