Free Wi-Fi Hotspot Loans With a Reading Public Library Card

Reading Public Library lends out Wi-Fi hotspot kits, called RPL HotSpots, so you can get online at home with a tablet, laptop or other Wi-Fi-enabled device. If you have a library card, you can check out a hotspot for free.

To borrow one you need a Full Access Adult library card in good standing. You can have only one hotspot device checked out at a time, and only one hotspot hold on a card at a time.

Each kit comes with: - 1 case - 1 hotspot device - 1 micro USB cable - 1 wall charger

You can keep the kit for four weeks. Up to ten devices can connect to the hotspot at one time, and each device has its own secure password found in the device's menu options. Hotspots may be renewed in person at the lending library if no one else has a hold on it.

Hotspot kits are available for checkout at the circulation desks at any Reading Public Library branch. You can also place a hold by calling the library at 610.655.6350 or by speaking with staff at any RPL location. You are notified when your hold is available, and you then have 8 days to check out the hotspot before the hold is cancelled. A hold cannot be paused, but you may cancel or edit it, including changing the pick-up location or contact information. If all hotspots are out, you can be placed on a waiting list once the current hotspot has been returned.

The hotspot connects to T-Mobile cell towers, so signal strength depends on where you are. If your device will not connect or will not stay connected, try moving the hotspot near a window or to another side of the house, restart both the hotspot and your device, check that Wi-Fi is turned on in your device settings, and keep your device within 30 feet of the hotspot. The device works only in the United States and only where a T-Mobile signal is available; you can check coverage at t-mobile.com/coverage/coverage-map. For help connecting your own device, call 610.655.6350 and ask to speak with a Librarian.

Return the kit to the main desk of the branch where you checked it out. Hotspots may not be put in a book drop and may not be returned to a different library. Late kits are charged $1 per day up to a maximum of $15, and the wireless service is turned off if the hotspot is not returned on the due date. If parts are lost or damaged, the borrower pays: $50 for the hotspot device, $2.50 for the charger cord, $2.50 for the USB adapter and $10 for the case. If the whole kit is lost or damaged, contact the location where you checked it out right away; the total kit replacement fee is $50.

The main branch and district center is at 100 S. Fifth St., Reading, PA 19602, phone 610-655-6350, email info@readingpubliclibrary.org. All Reading Public Library locations are accessible. The page does not list library hours, so call to check before you go.

Source: readingpubliclibrary.org/hotspot, read September 18, 2026.

The details

Who it’s for
Full Access Adult library card in good standing Borrower is limited to checking out one (1) hotspot device at a time Customer can be placed on a waiting list once the current hotspot has been returned Available at all RPL locations.
Area: Reading Public Library cardholdersAdults
Cost
If you have a Library card, you can check out a hotspot for free. Customers are charged a late fee of $1 per day to a max of $15 for hotspot kits that are returned past the due date. Hotspot device replacement fee: $50 Charger cord replacement: $2.50 USB adapter replacement: $2.50 Case replacement: $10
How to apply
Hotspot kits are available for checkout at the circulation desks at the any Reading Public Library branch. Yes, a hold can be placed by calling the library at 610.655.6350 or speaking with staff at any RPL location. One (1) hotspot hold may be placed on a library card at a time. Customers are notified when their hotspot hold is available.
Read the rest

Once notified, customers have 8 days to check out the hotspot before the hold is cancelled.

What to bring
  • Full Access Adult library card
Where100 S 5th St, Reading, PA 19602Get directions →More in Reading
CheckedChecked September 18, 2026

In Reading Public Library’s words

It’s easy to get online with an RPL HotSpot. If you have a Library card, you can check out a hotspot for free. Use it to connect your tablet, laptop or other Wi-Fi-enabled device. You can borrow an RPL HotSpot for 4 weeks.

Organization

Reading Public Library

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About this listing

This listing summarizes publicly available information from readingpubliclibrary.org/hotspot. Last recorded review: September 18, 2026. Contact the provider to confirm eligibility, hours and availability before you go. If something here is wrong, tell us.

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