A mobile “hotspot” consists of the mobile wireless hotspot device itself, as well as its charger and case. When a patron borrows a mobile hotspot, the patron’s use of the equipment is available under the following terms and conditions. These terms and conditions are in addition to the standard Library policies and other terms and conditions described below for which the user is responsible.

Mobile Hotspot Borrowers

  • Hotspot borrowers must be over the age of 18.
  • Hotspot borrowers must be members of the Agnes Robinson Waterloo Public Library for at least three (3) months and have a record of good standing.
  • Hotspot borrowers must agree to the terms of checkout by signing a Library’s Mobile Hotspot Checkout Agreement.
  • Hotspot borrowers must present a valid Nebraska driver’s license or other valid identification card at the time of checkout.

Checkout Policy

  • Hotspots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and may be reserved ahead of time only when the device is already checked out. Patrons will be notified when the hotspot is ready for pickup. Patrons will have 48 hours from the time of this notification call to check out the hotspot, after such time it will be released to another patron.
  • each borrower/household may only check out one hotspot (and one laptop or tablet) at a time.
  • Hotspots may be checked out for a period of seven (7) days. A Monday checkout is due the following Monday at least 30 minutes before closing. It is mandatory that the patron remain in the Library until staff has checked the hotspot in and it has been determined that there is no damage or missing items and an evaluation form has been completed.
  • If hotspots are not returned within seven (7) days, a fine of $10 per day will be assessed (in addition to $25 per day if a borrowed laptop/tablet is also overdue). Hotspots not returned fourteen (14) days from checkout date will result in the accrual of the full replacement cost of the hotspot and all accessories (and laptop/tablet if applicable). In addition to replacement cost, all fines will be assessed up until replacement can be made. All Library privileges will be suspended under these conditions and will result in further collection methods.
  • There are no renewals, either online, by email, or by phone. However, after the hotspot is returned in-person during normal business hours, the same hotspot may be checked out after inspection by staff and only if it is not currently on-hold for another patron.
  • Patrons are not permitted to return the hotspot to the Library’s book drop. Rather, hotspots must be returned directly to a Library staff member, who will verify that all components of the hotspot are accounted for before checking it in from the borrowing patron’s account. The hotspot will not be considered returned until all components of the hotspot are returned.
  • By borrowing and initiating use of the Library’s hotspot, the user agrees to abide by the Library’s policies and rules, and agrees to hold the Library and its agents harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities, directly or indirectly, relating to the use of the Library’s hotspot and internet access provided by the Library. Deliberate altering of any files or modifying configuration of Library-owned equipment is strictly prohibited.
  • Internet service relies on cell tower technology and coverage. Service outside the continental United States is prohibited; any fees associated with the use outside of this area will be the responsibility of the borrower. User experience can vary based on location. The Library is not responsible for personal information shared over the Internet or for information or websites accessed. The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages, or expense resulting from the use of the hotspot. A hotspot can provide Internet access for up to ten (10) devices.
  • The borrowing patron will be responsible for lost or damaged hotspots and accessories (includes theft thereof). Patrons must be mindful of current replacement costs of mobile hotspots and accessories before borrowing, as he/she will be responsible for paying the replacement cost of a damaged or lost hotspot device and/or accessories as defined on the Replacement Costs list. Hotspots must be kept in a temperature-controlled environment (not left in vehicles or in extreme temperatures).
  • Parents/guardians are responsible for the use of the hotspots by minors.
  • This device must be used in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purpose for which they are provided and not for any illegal purposes. Unlawful use of the Internet or use that violates any of the Library’s policies is prohibited and may result in the loss of privileges.
  • For assistance in the operation of the Library hotspots, borrowers may call the Library during normal business hours.
  • Mobile hotspot borrowers are required to fill out a user survey upon returning the hotspot for check in. A survey is required each and every time a hotspot is checked out. You are not asked to include your name or any identifiers on the survey. Your responses to survey questions will help us with information about our efforts and experiences in using our grant funds to provide Internet access for people in our community and will be beneficial in supporting legislation and appropriations to provide further funding for improving library broadband services.
  • The Library Director reserves the right to limit or regulate use of library equipment and may use discretion in granting exceptions.
Internet Access for Minors Permission Form
Mobile Wi-Fi/Hotspot Device Check-Out Agreement Form
Hotspot Inspection Form
Replacement Costs Chart

This project is supported in part by the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services and granted by the Nebraska Library Commission.

Approved by the Agnes Robinson Waterloo Public Library Board of Trustees on March 8, 2021.