Alert message

- : All Libraries are closed for Independence Day. Our eLibrary is always open!

Alert message: Closure at Hillview

 NOTICE: Our Hillview Branch Library will remain closed until further notice. Thanks for your understanding. All other locations will be open.

Alert message: Masks

 The City of San Jose strongly recommends all people (ages 2+) wear a mask at all SJPL branch locations. Masks are still required at the King Library.

  1. Home
  2. Your Library
  3. Features
  4. SJ Access: Free Internet & Tech Devices
  5. Wi-Fi Hotspots
  6. for Library Members

Wi-Fi Hotspots for Library Members

Library customer holding SJ Access wifi hotspot device and manual.

Request a Wi-Fi Hotspot

You can now check out a Wi-Fi (wifi) hotspot with your library card. This service is FREE and available to everyone. We have two types of Wi-Fi hotspots available: unfiltered hotspots and youth hotspots with a web filter.

Here's what you need to know to get started:

What Is a Wi-Fi Hotspot?

A portable Wi-Fi (wifi) hotspot is a pocket-sized mobile device. It uses Wi-Fi to help you connect your devices to the internet without having to plug into anything. Examples of devices you could use with a Wi-Fi hotspot are Chromebooks, iPads and other tablets, laptops, and smartphones. More about hotspots.

What Is a Web Filter?

A web filter is designed to restrict what websites users can visit. There are a few more things to know about web filters:

  • The intent is to block websites considered threatening or harmful.
  • Web filters are not perfect. They can't block all threatening and harmful websites. They may block access to legitimate research sites.
  • Web filters do not protect users from cyber bullying, financial crimes, computer viruses, or other illegal activities.

Learn more about protecting yourself and others online with our Virtual Privacy Lab.

How to Borrow a Wi-Fi Hotspot

  • STEP 1: Find a hotspot at your chosen library location and request it.
  • STEP 2: Wait to be notified by email or phone once your hotspot is ready for pickup.
  • STEP 3: When you arrive at the library, let a staff member know you are picking up your hotspot.
  • STEP 4: Staff will review the Device Policy and User Agreement before you sign the document. Here is the agreement if you want to look at it before picking up your hotspot: English | Español | Tiếng Việt

Please Note:

  • The checkout period is 90 days with one auto renewal of 30 days if there are no other requests on the item.
  • Library members ages 17 and under need to be accompanied by an adult to pick up their hotspot.

How to Return Your Wi-Fi Hotspot

  • Hand your device to a staff member.
  • Do not return your hotspot in the book drop.

More about Hotspots

  • AT&T is the internet service provider for both types of hotspots. This is the company that makes the internet on the hotspots work.
  • You can connect up to 15 devices on these hotspots.
  • As more devices connect to the hotspot, the internet speed could slow down.
  • One hotspot can be checked out on a library card at a time.

COVID-19 Safety

Before visiting an SJPL location, please review our Safety Guidelines.

Need Help?

More Ways to Get Online for Free

MakerSpaceShip with superimposed Wi-Fi icon.

Pick Up Your Hotspot at Our Maker[Space]Ship

The Maker[Space]Ship blasts off again to provide internet access to those in need!

Mother helping daughter with school work on a laptop.

Community Wi-Fi in East Side San José

Free Community Wi-Fi (wifi) is available for residents and visitors near the James Lick, Yerba Buena and Overfelt high school areas, in East San José.

Two boys using laptop computer

In-Library Wi-Fi

Access free Wi-Fi (wifi) at all SJPL locations. Select locations extend Wi-Fi out into the parking lots.