Hotspot Lending:

A wifi hotspot is a small electronic device that provides a wifi signal.  Other devices like laptops, mobile phones, and computers can then use the wifi signal for internet access.  A hotspot usually has a password that must be entered to gain access to the signal.  A hotspot must either be charged or plugged to work.  A charge usually lasts many hours.  A hotspot requires a data plan subscription (the hotspots lent by the library already have a data plan in place!).  Hotspots are portable and can be carried from place to place to provide internet access anywhere.

1. Can I bring the hotspot home?
   Yes!  There are no restrictions on where it can be used.
2. Can I borrow more than one?
   No!  One hotspot per person.
3. What can I do with it?
   It's intended to provide students with online access to distance or online classes, support service offered online by the library, LAC, and other programs on campus, and to minimize disruptions to student parents if their kids need to stay home from school or daycare due to COVID or other disruptions.
4. What if I'm not a student parent?
   Any hotspots that remain available starting Tuesday, September 6, can be borrowed by ANY student.
5. Why is preference for student parents?
   Student parents face many obstacles that didn't exist before COVID, particularly K-12 schools that switch to remote without advance notice, daycares that limit attendance due to COVID-like symptoms, and other disruptions.  The agency that provided the grant funding to purchase the hotspots was especially interested in supporting student parents.
6. What if I break it or it's stolen or something bad happens?
   A replacement fee of $180 will apply.
7. Can my kids use it?
   The hotspot is primarily intended for HVCC students and ANY use must comply with HVCC Student Computer Use guidelines described in the Student Handbook.  That said, multiple devices can be connected to the hotspot at the same time.
8. Can I keep it past May 12?
   No!  You must return it by the end of the semester.  Students enrolled in Summer classes may borrow a hotspot starting May 8.
9. Can I also borrow a Chromebook?
   Yes!  The library has about 150 Chromebooks available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Students may borrow a Chromebook at the same time they are borrowing a hotspot.
10. Is it really free?
    Yes!  So long as the hotspot is returned on time and in undamaged condition, there is no cost!  
11. Can employees borrow a hotspot?
    No, this is a student-focused initiative.

The Computer Learning Center on the lower level of the Marvin Library Learning Commons is available to assist students with their hotspot device.  Contact the help desk in person, by phone at 518-629-7891, or by email at clchelp@hvcc.edu.  

Check out the T-Mobile Device Help documentation including a YouTube video.

The hotspot lending service was provided during the Fall 2022 semester by a grant from the American Library Association.  Thank you!