Berkshire Athenaeum Is Loaning Out WI-FI Hotspots

The Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield’s public library, is pleased to offer an expanded collection of Wi-Fi hotspots available for loan.

The Wi-Fi hotspots are available at the library’s circulation desk for a one-week, nonrenewable loan with a library card and are to be returned to the Athenaeum at the end of the loan.

Each hotspot supports a maximum of 10 device connections. The Friends of the Berkshire Athenaeum, an all-volunteer organization that supports library programs and services, provided funds to obtain the 26 Sprint mobile hotspots.

For over five years the Friends have been able to provide a spending line specifically dedicated to nontraditional library holdings. We felt it was a valuable supplement to the books, DVDs, music CDs, and other library collections the athenaeum offers,” said Friends President Amy Chin. “We’re pleased that the library is now able to offer our patrons so many more Wi-Fi hotspots for anyone needing an internet connection, whether for personal, professional or entertainment activities. The Friends is a member-supported organization and it’s thanks to our members and book sale shoppers that we can continue to support the library with funding for these kinds of things.

Those interested in borrowing a wifi hotspot can visit the library during its modified hours:  10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday;  10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.

Please note the first hour of each day, from 10-11 a.m., is intended for at-risk populations.

All library visitors are required to wear a mask for the entirety of their visit, as well as follow social distancing and hygiene protocols. Please visit www.pittsfieldlibrary.org for more information.