A mobile hotspot is a portable Wi-Fi device that allows you to carry a portable internet source with you wherever you go. With a mobile hotspot, you will have wireless internet access in your car, at home or anywhere else. It does not need to be plugged into a data port and you do not need a wireless or internet subscription to use it.

The library has several hotspots which provide internet access to smartphones, tablets and other wireless-enabled devices through a cellular network. A hotspot can support up to 10 devices at a time and provide unlimited internet service. Service is dependent on the availability of the network where the hotspot is being used.

Where can I check out a mobile hotspot?
Mobile hotspots are held at both Olathe library locations. Hotspots cannot be placed on hold. They must be checked out at an Olathe library and cannot be sent to a Johnson County Library. Hotspots should be returned to the library they were checked out.

How long can I check out a hotspot?
Mobile hotspots will check out for a period of two weeks (14 days).

Can I renew?
Hotspots are not able to be renewed. 

How do I return the mobile hotspots?
Mobile hotspots should be returned in-person to Information Desk at the library where they were checked out. Staff will inspect the hotspot and its accessories for condition and missing parts.

Do I need to charge the mobile hotspot before I return it?
Yes, please! Please fully charge the mobile hotspot before you return it. Borrowed mobile hotspots must be returned in good condition.

What if I have the mobile hotspot past the due date?
The Olathe Public Library recently went fine-free so no overdue fines will be assessed. However, if a mobile hotspot is not returned within thirty (30) days of the due date, a bill for the replacement cost of the hotspot  will be added to your account. You must return the mobile hotspot with all components in tact (hotspot device, charging cable/power adaptor, and case) for the library to consider the item checked in and returned. Service will be discontinued to any hotspot kept past the due date.

What happens if the mobile hotspot is lost or damaged?
You will be charged for the mobile hotspot and/or any accessory not returned or returned damaged. Replacement costs:

What information about my internet usage, if any, is tracked by the library or the service provider?
Your internet usage is not tracked by the Library or the service provider.

Is the mobile hotspot secure?
Hotspots are unsecured, wireless networks and any information being sent or received over the network could potentially be intercepted by another wireless user. Mobile hotspot borrowers are cautioned against transmitting their credit card information, passwords and other sensitive, personal information while using any wireless network, and do so at their own risk.

Is the mobile hotspot filtered?
The mobile hotspots are not equipped with any Internet-filtering capabilities. Borrowers are entirely responsible for any content accessed through a mobile hotspot. Mobile hotspot borrowers are responsible for protecting children from inappropriate content. Mobile hotspot users should refrain from online activity that violates federal, state, or local laws.

How much data can I use?
The mobile hotspots are on unlimited data plans managed by the Library.

What do I do if I successfully connected, however, I have slow-to-no internet access?
The mobile hotspots gain internet access through T-mobile cell towers. If the mobile hotspot has no signal from T-mobile, it will not be able to give you internet access. Check the front of the mobile hotspot and look for signal bars. If no bars are found, the device has no signal. Turn the device off and back on to try and gain internet access. If signal bars do not appear, you may be out of T-mobile's network coverage. 

How long does the battery last?
The device’s battery life will vary.

How do I disconnect a personal device from the mobile hotspot?
The mobile hotspot does not have the ability to forget or disconnect devices from itself. You must manually go into the Wi-Fi settings on your device and “forget” the mobile hotspot in order to disconnect.

Can I use the mobile hotspot outside the U.S.?
No, the mobile hotspots only work in the U.S.