Purpose
Oakmont Carnegie Library (OCL) offers mobile hotspots to provide greater access to high-speed internet for educational, professional, and personal use. Hotspots are portable devices that connect laptops, tablets, and other Wi-Fi-enabled devices to the internet, supporting activities such as travel, schoolwork, job searching, and remote work.
The Library currently offers a limited number of mobile wireless hotspots for public checkout.
Service Details
Hotspot internet service is provided by T-Mobile with unlimited data at 4G speeds. Up to 15 devices may be connected to a hotspot at one time. Coverage is subject to T-Mobile network availability. Patrons are encouraged to review the T-Mobile coverage map if traveling outside the Oakmont area. The Library is not responsible for variations in service coverage, speed, or connectivity.
Eligibility
Hotspots may be checked out by Oakmont Carnegie Library patrons who:
- Hold a valid Allegheny County library card
- Have their card in good standing
Only one hotspot may be borrowed per household at a time.
Loan Period and Checkout
- Hotspots circulate for a 3-week loan period.
- No renewals are permitted.
- Hotspots are not available for hold or request. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Hotspots must be checked out in person at the Oakmont Carnegie Library circulation or reference desk.
- Hotspots may only be checked in and immediately checked out by the same card holder if there is another hotspot available at that time.
Each hotspot circulates in a protective case and includes:
- Mobile hotspot device
- Charging cord with adapter
- Directions for use
The borrower assumes full responsibility for the device and all included components during the loan period.
Returns
- Hotspots must be returned directly to the circulation or reference desk at Oakmont Carnegie Library.
- Hotspots may not be returned in the book drop or at another library location.
If a hotspot is returned in the book drop or to another location, the patron assumes responsibility for any resulting damage or loss.
Overdue hotspots will have service shut off immediately.
Hotspots not returned within 30 days of the due date will be considered lost and the replacement cost will be charged to the borrower’s account.
Lost or Damaged Equipment
- The replacement cost for a lost hotspot device is $60.00.
- Lost or damaged charging cords, adapters, or cases will be charged at current market replacement cost.
The Library reserves the right to determine whether damage exceeds normal wear and requires replacement.
Acceptable Use
Hotspot use is subject to the Oakmont Carnegie Library Internet Use Policy. The Library does not monitor internet activity and assumes no responsibility for patron use of the device.
Approved by the Board of Trustees on 3/12/2026