Free Wi-Fi Hotspot Loans From Reading Public Library
Reading Public Library lends Wi-Fi hotspot kits, called RPL HotSpots, so you can get online 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. A customer can be placed on a waiting list once the current hotspot has been returned.
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 be connected to the hotspot at one time, and each device has its own unique secure password found in the device's menu options. Hotspots may be renewed in person at the lending library if there are no holds on it. If there are pending holds, you can place a hold on a hotspot for future borrowing when one becomes available.
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. Customers are notified when their hold is available, and then have 8 days to check out the hotspot before the hold is cancelled. A hold cannot be paused once placed, but you may cancel or edit it, including changing the pick-up location or contact information.
The hotspot connects to nearby cellular towers and shares that connection with your devices over Wi-Fi. It needs a T-Mobile signal to work, so signal strength varies with where you are. If your device will not connect or will not stay connected, try setting the hotspot by a window or taking it to a different side of the house, restart both the hotspot and your own device, check that Wi-Fi is turned on in your device settings, and keep your device within 30 feet of the hotspot. The device only functions in the United States and where a T-Mobile signal is available; you can check coverage at t-mobile.com/coverage/coverage-map. For help connecting your personal device, call the library at 610.655.6350 to speak with a Librarian.
Return the kit to the main desk of the branch where you originally checked it out. Hotspots may not be returned in a book drop, nor may they be returned to a different library. Kits returned past the due date are charged a late fee of $1 per day to a maximum of $15, and the wireless service is turned off if the hotspot is not returned on the due date. Borrowers are responsible for loss or damage: the hotspot device replacement fee is $50, charger cord replacement is $2.50, USB adapter replacement is $2.50 and case replacement is $10. If the entire kit is lost or damaged, contact the location where you checked it out immediately; the total kit replacement fee is $50.
The Main Branch and District Center is at 100 S. Fifth St., Reading, PA 19602. The general number for the library is 610-655-6350 and the general email is info@readingpubliclibrary.org. All Reading Public Library locations are accessible. The hotspot page does not list branch hours, and it does not say which other branch addresses hold the kits beyond saying every branch has them.
Source: readingpubliclibrary.org/hotspot, read November 3, 2026.
The details
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.
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Reading Public Library
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This listing summarizes publicly available information from readingpubliclibrary.org/hotspot. Last recorded review: November 3, 2026. Contact the provider to confirm eligibility, hours and availability before you go. If something here is wrong, tell us.