Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to checkout a hotspot?

No, mobile hotspots are free to borrow.

Who can borrow a mobile hotspot?  How many hotspots can I check out at one time?

Urbandale Public Library cardholders, 18 years of age or older, in good standing may borrow a hotspot. One hotspot may be checked out per card.

How long can I borrow the hotpot?

Hotspots may be checked out for one week (7 days), with two renewals possible if no one is waiting. Mobile hotspots can be placed on hold through our online catalog.

How do I check out a hotspot?

Mobile hotspots are stored at the Front Desk, so you will need to ask for staff assistance to check one out. Each hotspot carrying case includes the device, a power cord, and two booklets.

How do I return the hotspot?

Just like books and other materials, mobile hotspots can be returned at three designated locations, including:

• Inside our lobby book return,
• Through our 24-hour drive-up book drop available at the north end of the building,
• Or on the west side of Urbandale, through our 24-hour return at Webster Elementary. 

What are the fees if the hotspot is overdue or lost?

You will be assessed our normal fine of $.25 cents per day for a hotspot not returned by its due date. The Library can disable the data on any device that is overdue. 

Cardholders will be charged a $50 replacement cost for a lost hotspot.

Are there limits to where the hotspots will work?

The Urbandale Public Library’s mobile hotspots will work anywhere T-Mobile has data coverage.  View the T-Mobile data coverage map.

How do I turn on the hotspot? What if I need help using it?

Each hotspot carrying case includes a start-up booklet. More complete instructions can be found in the user’s manual. To download a user’s manual to review, click here.

If you need further assistance using the hotspot, please stop by or call the Library at 515-278-3945.