A Prince William Public Libraries staff member helps a patron check out a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
By Katrina Wilson
Sponsored by Prince William Public Libraries
Over the next few months, Prince William Public Libraries (PWPL) will be adding more than 250 mobile Wi-Fi hotspots to enhance their mobile hotspot lending program to expand free internet access to patrons beyond their 12 public service locations.
“We understand that during the pandemic, and even during ‘regular’ times, not everyone in our community can come into our libraries to use our computers or free Wi-Fi,” said Rachel Johnson, PWPL’s communications division chief.
Mobile Hotspots
The mobile hotspots extend their services beyond brick-and-mortar buildings so people can access internet from home.
Hotspots are available to borrow from any Prince William Public Library. They can be checked out in person, through the library’s Online Catalog, or by phone. Patrons must be at least 18 years of age and have their library card and picture ID with them when checking out a mobile hotspot.
The hotspots are loaned out for a three-week period. Each Wi-Fi hotspot kit contains a hotspot device, charging adaptor, and instructions. Staff are also available to help with troubleshooting and to answer any questions.
Johnson said since PWPL began offering the mobile Wi-Fi hotspots last fall, they have been checked out nearly 400 times. They will add even more hotspots for patrons to check out in the coming months.
Testimonials
Patron Cara A. talked about how the hotspots has helped someone in her family already.
“My mom said to thank you profusely for the mobile hotspot I checked out for her,” she said. “She really loved having internet in her house.”
“Prince William Public Libraries is committed to removing barriers to digital access and ensuring that we are striving to achieve our vision in being the hub connecting people to the transforming power of information, both in and beyond our buildings,” said Deborah Wright, PWPL director. “The hotspot lending program is just one approach we’re taking to help the greater Prince William Community stay connected.”
Advancements at the Library
This is not the only advancement the library has made in the last six months. Their digital library is still active. Prince William County, City of Manassas residents, and surrounding jurisdictions can access all the library’s digital services without visiting a library branch by signing up for a Digital Library Card. The Digital Library Card expires in two years and can be changed to a physical library card.
If you have questions, contact librarycommunications@pwcgov.org.
Katrina Wilson is a freelance writer and amateur voice actor. She lives in Chantilly with her husband. You can follow her on Twitter at KatrinaMWilson_
