Mobile Device Borrowing Policy

The library has a limited number of WiFi hotspots, Kindle Fire tablets, and notebook computers available for borrowing at the Hughes Library. WiFi hotspots and Kindle Fire tablets are also available at the branch libraries. Hotspots and Kindle Fire tablets are available for a 14-day checkout and the notebook computers will be available only for in-library use for a four-hour period. (NOTE: To assist patrons during the pandemic, computer notebooks are also being circulated for 14 days during at this time.]

Who can borrow a Mobile Device?
• Patrons ages 18 and older may borrow the mobile devices.
• Patrons must have a valid Eastern Monroe Public Library card, be in good standing (under the $10 maximum fine threshold), and have a photo ID with a date of birth.
• Patrons must sign the Mobile Device Borrower Agreement form or have a signed form on file in order to checkout a mobile device.
• Mobile Devices are loaned on a first-come, first-serve basis. Patrons may place holds for Kindle Fire tablets. No holds will be accepted for notebook computers.
• One mobile device per person.

How long can I checkout a Mobile Device?

Hotspots and Kindle Fire tablets may be checked out for a fourteen-day period. If checked out on a Tuesday, it will be due in two weeks on Tuesday by closing time. Notebook computers can be checked out for four hours for use within the library only.
When can I checkout a Mobile Device?
Mobile devices may be checked out during all posted library hours. They must be returned to the circulation desk before closing. Do not leave the mobile devices in the book drop or you will incur a fine.

Where can I use a mobile device?
Patrons may take advantage of the public library’s free Wi-Fi inside the building. Patrons may also use the Kindle Fire devices anywhere there is Wi-Fi such as local coffee shop, or at home. Please be careful and vigilant when you take the mobile devices out to prevent theft or damages. You are solely responsible for damage to the device or internet charges incurred outside of the library.

What do I get when I borrow a mobile device?
Wireless mobile device, carrying case, and power charger/cord.

What are the fines and fees for late or damaged mobile devices?
Please do not leave mobile devices unattended. The patron is solely responsible for the mobile device while it is checked out, and responsible for late fees and replacement costs for damages, loss, or theft.

Hotspots and Kindle Fire tablets are checked out for 14 days and accrue fines at the rate of $1.00 per day starting the first day it is overdue. If the Kindle Fire is not returned within 30 days past the due date, the patron will be charged a replacement cost of $75.00 in addition to the full overdue fee.

Patrons may borrow Notebooks for use within the Library Only for a four-hour periods and will have a fine of $1.00 per hour, in whole or in part, after the fourth hour. While the patron must still return the Notebook after the four-hour period, another Notebook may be checked out if one is available. If the patron does not return the Notebook, the patron will be charged a replacement cost of $200.00.
The patron will be billed for repairs or replacement costs up to $200.00 if the mobile device or components are damaged, lost, or stolen, $10.00 per minor cosmetic damage, and up to $10.00 dollars per peripheral lost or damaged.

The patron is also responsible for any violation of the Mobile Device Borrower Agreement, Computer User Agreement and all other applicable library policies.

What happens when I borrow a mobile device?
Mobile devices are checked out from the circulation desk at your local Eastern Monroe Public Library and must be returned to the same location. You must present your valid library card and picture ID with date of birth each time you check out a mobile device. NO EXCEPTIONS.

By the end of the loan period, you must bring the mobile device back to the circulation desk in person. Do not leave the mobile device on the circulation desk or in the book drop. Wait until a staff member is present and available to assist you. Patrons should wait while the library staff verifies the device has been returned in the same condition as it was loaned. You will then receive a receipt when the mobile device is fully inspected and returned.

The patron must wait twenty-four hours before borrowing the mobile device that they just returned. However, the patron may checkout another mobile device if one is available at the library or its branches.

What should I do if I notice damage?
The patron should inspect the device before leaving the library. All damage should be immediately reported. This will help prevent your account from being fined.

Disclaimer
The Library reserves the right to modify the Mobile Device policy and Mobile Device Borrower Agreement at any time. Blocking software is not available on mobile devices and the library cannot be held responsible for any content viewed. By checking out a mobile device, the patron agrees they will not engage in illegal activities, they are solely responsible for the mobile device, and they are eighteen years or older. The library is not responsible for loss or damage to patron’s data for any reason while the patron uses a library mobile device.