Detroit— The Detroit Public Library is expanding our popular “Laptop to Go” program so that even more customers can now check out a laptop for personal use! And now for the first time, the library is also offering “Hotspots-to-Go.”
In addition to the library’s current loaner laptops, an additional 300 circulating laptops and 500 wi-fi devices were purchased through funds from the federal COVID-19 relief program Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF). Additionally, tech support is now for those checking out the devices, including a technician on-site at Main Library and a phone number specifically for laptop operation and troubleshooting questions.
To reserve a laptop and/or a hotspot, you can place a hold in-person at any Detroit Public Library location or over the phone with your Detroit Public Library card. The laptops and hotspots must be reserved in advance and you will be notified when it’s ready to be picked up. You will be able to check out a laptop or hotspot for 60 days, and devices can be checked out together or separately.
"Access to computers and the internet are integral in today's work and social environments. Being able to use computers and the internet at home is even more crucial with hybrid work schedules and virtual meetings," states A.J. Funchess, Assistant Director, Marketing & Communications. "Being able to check-out quality laptops, with hotspots to access the internet are extremely valuable services we offer the citizens of Detroit to support their efforts of self-improvement and development."
Checkout a Laptop or a Hotspot
· Request a laptop or hotspot in-person or over the phone.
· Must be a resident of Detroit or Highland Park. Holds can only be made on an adult Detroit Public Library card with no blocks. Only one laptop and/or hotspot per card.
· Circulation period for laptops and hotspots is 60 days. Return in person to any open Detroit Public Library location on or before the due date.
· To return a laptop, an automated “reminder” telephone call will go out 3 days prior to due date. After the due date, the laptop will reboot and become inoperable. Wi-Fi hotspots will also be disabled after due date.
· There is no charge to check out a laptop or hotspot, but there is a replacement fee if they are lost or damaged.