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Dickinson County Library offers ‘hotspot’ tablets for digital access

NIKKI YOUNK OF the Dickinson County Library displays one of the Smarter XL Hotspot tablets available for checkout. These devices can function either as an Internet-connected tablet or as a hotspot that can provide Internet access for up to eight separate devices. (Submitted photo)

IRON MOUNTAIN — Dedicated to helping bridge the digital divide during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, the Dickinson County Library now has three Smarter XL Hotspot tablets available for adult patrons to check out.

These devices can function either as an Internet-connected tablet or as a hotspot that can provide Internet access for up to eight separate devices. Each one comes loaded with helpful apps to access the library’s digital resources, such as Libby for eBooks and audiobooks and more.

“The digital divide in our community can make virtual learning near impossible,” Library Director Megan Buck said. “With students in our community coming home to learn, we hope this will help a few families connect their children to their classmates.”

Due to high demand, hotspots may not immediately be available. Patrons are encouraged to place holds on the items by calling the main library in Iron Mountain at 906-774-1218.

Signal strength will vary by location and, unfortunately, the library cannot guarantee connectivity in all areas. Patrons are asked to report connectivity issues to library staff when returning the device.

Dickinson County Library cardholders in good standing and at least 18 years old may check out a hotspot for 14 days. The device may be renewed once for an additional 14 days as long as it is not on hold for another patron. Only one hotspot can be checked out at a time per household or family.

When checking out a hotspot, patrons will be required to show their library card or a form of photo identification. They also must sign the Hotspot Lending Agreement and the library’s Internet Access Policy Summary.

Hotspots must be returned on time and in-person; they cannot be returned via the outside book drop. While the library is in Phase 4, staff will schedule patrons for a return appointment at the time the device is checked out.

Fees will be charged for late or damaged equipment.

For more details, go online to the library’s website at www.dcl-lib.org, then the “Quicklinks” section to view the entire Hotspot Lending Agreement.

All three library sites also offer WiFi service that is accessible outside the buildings all day, every day.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and a 2020 CARES Act Digital Inclusion Grant through the Library of Michigan.

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