FAQs

Just charge them, turn them on, and access Wi-Fi.

They are free with a Tacoma Public Library card. Check with your local Tacoma Public Library to get a library card.

There is a hotspot and charging cord in each box.

Up to 10 devices can be connected to a TPL hotspot.

You can check out a hotspot for three weeks. If they do not have a hold on them, they will automatically renew three times, just like our books.

Please do not return in book drops, but go to the desk of any library during open hours , opens a new windowand return to a staff member.

Overdue hotspots will be deactivated. There is a $5 fee for lost charging cables if only the charger is lost or broken. There is a $100 for a lost hotspot if the hotspot itself is damaged or lost.

Tacoma Public Library has multiple hotspot models. Tacoma Public Library from time to time will purchase new models to replace old ones, and to ensure we provide the best service possible to our patrons.

Patrons looking for affordable Wi-Fi options in Tacoma should visit the City of Tacoma’s page on Internet Services and Digital Equity: https://www.cityoftacoma.org/government/city_departments/information_technology/digital_equity/residential_internet_services_and_devices, opens a new window

• TPL hotspots can be checked out by any Tacoma Library Patron, and placed on hold to pick up at any Tacoma Library location. TPL hotspots can be returned to any Tacoma Public Library location.
• TPL’s hotspots “live” at the Fern Hill, Moore, and Swasey branches. These branches were selected based on the Tacoma Equity Index’s opportunity map, to ensure hotspots are available where patrons need them the most, and to align with our strategic priority of Equity and Access. You can read more about our strategic plan here: https://www.tacomalibrary.org/strategic-plan/