Library patrons can now check out a hotspot device that can stream movies and TV shows anytime and anywhere without the need for an internet connection.
Officials this month announced the introduction of GoChip Beam devices into the library’s collections as a new way for lending entertainment options. Each device contains a small Wi-Fi router with a rechargeable battery, and comes preloaded with either five feature-length movies or an entire season of a television series.
After downloading an app and connecting to the GoChip Wi-Fi signal, up to eight simultaneous users can stream the movies or TV shows. Supported devices include Apple and Android mobile phones and tablets, as well as Mac and Windows laptops and desktop computers.
“We are excited to be one of the first libraries in the United States, and the first in Arkansas, to provide this great new technology,” said Heather Robideaux, the library’s manager of adult services. “Allowing cardholders access to content in new and convenient ways is part of our overall mission. We’re certain the GoChip devices will be a big hit with our patrons.”
Robideaux said the library will initially have 40 GoChip devices available for patrons to check out. There is a limit of one device per patron with a maximum checkout period of seven days. To check out a device, patrons are asked to pick up a GoChip case in the library’s media and magazine wing and take it to the main checkout desk to get the actual device along with instructional materials to assist them in using the device.
For more information, call 479-856-7207.
