BPL Lending Mobile Wi-Fi HotSpots

Mobile Wi-Fi HotSpot devices that allow you to connect a mobile-enabled device—such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet—to the Internet are now available for checkout at the following Birmingham Public Library branches: Avondale, Central, Five Points West, North Birmingham, and Springville Road. The HotSpots are portable, so you can connect your device almost wherever you are, like at home, in the park, or on vacation.

The National League of Cities explains the importance of this service. "These lending programs perform a critical role: in addition to providing basic broadband access to low-income residents, they allow patrons to access free e-books and other digital library resources, and they enable users to complete online job applications and perform other critical web-based processes at home. Outreach efforts are also aimed at the elderly and disabled, who often need access to healthcare information."

For more information about checking out a Mobile HotSpot, visit or call one of the participating libraries. You may also reserve a Wi-Fi HotSpot devise online.

Guidelines for Borrowing and Use Outside of the Library                                                         

• Patron must be 21 years of age or older to checkout a Mobile HotSpot.
• A valid Jefferson County Library account and a current driver’s license, passport, or military photo ID must be presented at the time of checkout.
• Patron must be a Birmingham resident.
• Patron must be in good standing with the library, with a current address on file and no fines above $5.
• Mobile HotSpots may be checked out for one week with no renewals. They must be returned to the owning library.
• Overdue Mobile HotSpots will be deactivated within 24 hours of due date.
• The Mobile HotSpot can provide Wi‐Fi Internet access for up to 10 devices.
• Internet content filtering is not provided through the BPL Wireless HotSpot. Parents/guardians are responsible for monitoring what their children access via the BPL Wireless HotSpot.

 Fines and Liability

• The overdue fine is $1 per day until returned.
• Patrons will be charged $25 for Mobile HotSpots returned to a book drop (indoor or outdoor) or to another library.
• The Mobile HotSpot should be kept in a temperature controlled environment; do not leave it in your car.
• The patron is responsible for costs associated with loss or damage of the Mobile HotSpot and/or peripherals.