Mobile Hotspots

A hotspot is a small mobile device that allows access to the internet on your Wi-Fi-equipped smart phones, laptops, computers, tablets, etc. Each hotspot has its own unique user ID and password. A Hotspot can connect between 10-20 devices.

Free internet service is provided on T-Mobile's network anywhere a cell phone signal can be received.  

T-Mobile Coverage Map

Need a hotspot now? Visit the service desk at the Main Library or Velma Teague Library to pick up an Express Mobile Hotspot. These hotspots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Check Availability

Library Hours

Planning ahead? Reserve a standard hotspot online. You'll be placed on a waiting list and receive a notification when it's ready to be picked up at the library location of your choice. Please note that you must use the same library card to place the hold and to check out the hotspot.

Place a Hold

To check out a hotspot, you must:

• be at least 18 years old;
• have a library card in good standing (i.e., your account must have your current address on file and less than $30 in fees);
• present a valid photo ID that shows your date of birth (the name on your photo ID and library card must match);
• sign a hotspot Checkout Agreement and complete a Hotspot Checkout Survey.

How to Get a Library Card

Checkout Agreement(PDF, 124KB)

Checkout Agreement in Spanish(PDF, 92KB)

You may check out only one hotspot per household at any given time. This rule applies regardless of how many family members have library cards.

Hotspots check out for three weeks. No renewals are allowed. Internet service will be shut off immediately after the due date.

Any patron returning a hotspot may not check out another one until the following day. This allows hotpots to be available for other users.

Can't check out a hotspot? If you don't qualify to check out a hotspot, or none are currently available, you can always use our free Wi-Fi inside any Glendale Public Library building.

In-Library Wi-Fi Access

Getting Started

Get help connecting your devices to the hotspot. This document is in both English and Spanish.

Quick Start Guide(PDF, 142KB)

Please note that our hotspots work only within the Continental U.S, where T-Mobile coverage is available. They are not equipped to roam.

T-Mobile Coverage Map

Tip Sheets

Make the most of your hotspot internet access. These documents are in both English and Spanish.

Job Search Tips(PDF, 126KB)

Online Safety Tips(PDF, 123KB)

Parent Safety Guide(PDF, 121KB)

Government Resources(PDF, 136KB)

Device Care 

• Keep the hotspot in a temperature-controlled environment. Never leave it in your car or permanent damage may result.

• Unplug the hotspot when it's finished charging. Leaving it plugged in continuously can damage the battery.

Internet Usage Rules

• Your internet usage is not tracked by the library or the service provider. The library does not provide patron information to the service provider. The only hotspot information collected by the library is the total amount of data transmitted and received by each device during a billing cycle.

• Internet filtering is provided through CIPA (Children's Internet Protection Act). However, borrowers are responsible for monitoring what their children/other users access via the hotspot.

• Do not use the hotspot for prohibited activities. Any use of the device for illegal purposes, unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material in any format or transmission of threatening, harassing, defamatory or obscene materials is strictly prohibited.

The library is not responsible for any liabilities, damage or expense resulting from use or misuse of the device, connection of the device to other electronic devices or any loss of data resulting from use of device.

Hotspot Troubleshooting Guide

• Won't turn on: Charge the hotspot for 30+ minutes, then hold the power button for 3 seconds.

• Can't connect: Check the network name/password on the hotspot label.

• Slow speed: Move to receive a better signal and/or disconnect unused devices.

• Overheating: Unplug the charger and move to a cooler location.

Still need help? Call 623-930-3600 or email elibrarian@glendaleaz.com for assistance.

Return Requirements: Return the hotspot with all cables and original packaging to a library service desk. Do not leave the hotspot in a book drop. Please note that any patron returning a hotspot may not check out another one until the following day. This allows hotpots to be available for other users.

Late Returns: Hotspots check out for three weeks, and no renewals are allowed. Internet service will be shut off immediately after the due date. If you don't return the hotspot promptly, it will be marked as lost, replacement fees will be posted to your library account, and your library card will be blocked.

Paying Fees