Mobile Hotspots now available for Checkout

The Library has a new offering, mobile Internet hotspots.  A mobile Internet hotspot uses cellular access to create a WiFi connection, allowing people to connect to the Internet where there is not typically strong, or any, WiFi access. They are available for checkout at both branches at the main circulation desk.

Hotspots can be checked out by any library card holder age 16 and over in good standing. They may not be placed on hold, but are available on a first come, first served basis. Since they are a limited resource, they are checked out for just one week and cannot be renewed.

The Minnesota State Library, a division of the Minnesota Department of Education, created a connectivity grant for libraries across the state, dividing the money with a formula that included the number of people who currently have access, as well as the available speed of Internet connectivity in each of the state’s twelve Regional Libraries.  The award partially used federal funding (CFDA 45.310, Library Services and Technology Act (LS-00-19-0024-19) Grants to States) for the grants.  The grant pays for one year of connectivity.