Libraries in Detroit add hot spots and laptops

The library just got cooler with this new incentive.

The Detroit Public Library expanded its Laptops-to-Go program with an additional 300 circulating laptops and 500 Wi-Fi devices. The items were purchased through federal COVID-19 pandemic relief programs like the Emergency Connectivity Fund and the American Rescue Plan Act.

Library guests will now also have assistance from a technician on-site at the main library to help check out the devices. A phone number will also be given to specifically help laptop users if they have some issues and need

help troubleshooting.

How to checkout a laptop or hot spot

Laptops and hot spots have to be reserved in person at any Detroit Public Library location, or by phone at 313-481-1400 with your library card.

It’s required that items are reserved in advance; borrowers will be notified when items are ready for pickup.

Holds are allowed on only one adult Detroit Library card with no blocks. Only one laptop or hot spot can be used per card.

How to get a library card

Detroit, Highland Park residents and Detroit

school students can apply for a digital library card using the online application. All applicants have to present at least one of the following:

Michigan driver’s license h

Michigan state identification card h

Detroit municipal identification card h

Current U.S. passport (must show proof h of residence)

Nonresidents can get a Detroit library card if they:

Own a Bloomfield Township library h card

Own an MILibrary card h

Pay $100 annually for a Detroit library h card. Applications have to be filled out and

brought to a Detroit Public Library branch with valid identification.

How long can you use the items?

The Detroit Public Library allows 90 days for each item. You can check out items together or separately.

Once it’s time to return an item, users will receive an automated “reminder” telephone call three days prior to the due date. Once the due date hits, laptops will reboot and become inoperable. Wi-Fi hot spots also will be disabled after the due date.

Items can be returned to any open Detroit Public Library location on or before the due date.

Cost

The laptops and hot spots are free of charge with a Detroit Public Library card. There is a replacement fee if items are lost or damaged.

Local Detroit Public Library locations

Detroit Public Library Main: 5201 h

Woodward Ave.

Detroit Public Library Bowen: 3648 Vernor h

Highway

Detroit Public Library Campbell: 8733 W. h

Vernor Highway

Detroit Public Library Chandler Park: h

12800 Harper Ave.

Detroit Public Library Chaney: 16101 Grand h

River Ave.

Detroit Public Library Duffield: 2507 W. h

Grand Blvd.

Detroit Public Library Edison: 18400 Joy h

Road

Detroit Public Library Elmwood Park: h

550 Chene

Detroit Public Library Franklin: 13651 E. h

McNichols

Detroit Public Library Jefferson: 12350 E. h

Outer Drive

Detroit Public Library Knapp: 13330 Conant h

Detroit Public Library Lincoln: 1221 E. h

7 Mile Road

Detroit Public Library Parkman: 1766 Oakman h Blvd.

Detroit Public Library Redford: 21200 h

Grand River

Detroit Public Library Sherwood Forest: h

7117 W. 7 Mile Road

Detroit Public Library Wilder: 7140 E. h

7 Mile Road