Technology Lending Policies

Material Type	Loan Period	Renewals	Overdue /Day	Borrowers	Holds
Wi-Fi Hotspots (limit 1/household)	14 days	0	$1.00	HPPL only	not allowed
Headphones	in Library only	0	$0	anyone	not allowed
Device Chargers	in Library only	0	$0	anyone	not allowed
DVD Player	in Library only	0	$0	anyone	not allowed
Laptop	In Library only	0	$0	anyone	not allowed

The Highland Park Public Library Technology Lending Program provides patrons with high-speed internet to access the library’s resources and other Internet needs such as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, laptops and other technology items. This program is designed for those who temporarily have no internet access at home, are going on vacation, or are temporarily working remotely.

Any patron who checks out a technology device will sign and agree to follow the technology lending agreement (English/ Español/ 中文).
Wi-Fi hotspot check out is available to all HPPL cardholders who are 18 and older, in good standing, with a valid card that is not blocked with outstanding fees.
Devices are limited to one per household and may be checked out for 14 days.
All devices must be checked out and returned to the Highland Park Public Library to staff at the reference desk.
The devices cannot be returned to the book drop or to another library.
After returning any of the devices, the devices will remain in the library for 24 hours before they can be checked out to the same patron or other people who live in the same household.
The Library reserves the right to refuse lending of any device to patrons who abuse equipment or who are repeatedly delinquent in returns.
In-library use of headphones, cords and chargers and Laptops or DVD player may be used by people of any age; they must either have a library card or collateral for exchange while the item is in use.

Disclaimers

The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages, or expenses resulting in the use or misuse of the devices, or any data loss resulting from the use of our devices.
While the Library does not track internet usage, patrons are prohibited from using devices for any illegal activities. The Library is not responsible for information accessed using this device or for personal information shared over the Internet. Engaging in behavior meant to cause harm to another individual, such as cyberbullying, or use of a device to access websites that are illegal or contain illegal content, will result in loss of borrowing privileges and possible notification to law enforcement. Any actions that lead to criminal prosecution are the responsibility of the borrower, not the Highland Park Public Library.

Hotspot-specific information

Hotspots can only be checked out at our Information or Youth Services desks.
Data usage is unlimited, but the devices can only be used in the U.S. There is no international data or roaming. The coverage area is the T-Mobile 4G LTE coverage area.
Do not leave the hotspot plugged in. Once it is fully charged, unplug it and let the battery run down before charging again. Please return the hotspot fully charged.
An overdue hotspot device will be deactivated, rendering the service unusable.
Each hotspot kit includes the following items. If any item is lost, damaged or stolen, the patron is responsible for a replacement fee as follows:
- T-Mobile T9 Franklin Mobile Hotspot – $100
- Charging Adapter -$15
- User Manual Sheet
- SSID and Password
- Hotspot Lending Policy
- Carrying case – $10
- Entire Kit – $125

Laptop-specific information:

Laptops are only intended for in-house use only.
Each laptop includes the following items. If any item is lost, damaged or stolen, the patron is responsible for a replacement fee as follows:
Laptop – $400
Charging adapter – $15
Carrying case – $25
Wireless mouse with battery and dongle – $10
Entire Kit – $450

Headphones, chargers & cables specific information

Headphones and chargers are intended for in-house use only.
Headphones lost/damaged fee – $15
Cell phone chargers or cables lost/damaged fee – $10
Chromebook chargers lost/damaged fee – $40

Lost/damaged fees are assessed by Highland Park Public Library. Refunds are only issued for fines and fees if the library determines that payment was in error, or if it is determined that a lost-and-paid item was returned within 30 days of payment. Receipt is required for refund payment to be processed.

All borrowing privileges will be blocked when fees exceed $10.00.

Effective 5/15/2023, Revised September 29, 2025