Library ‘lights’ Wi-Fi hotspots, books author

Tim Dorsey will sign his latest book, “Coconut Cowboy,” at the downtown Huntsville library on Feb. 26. CONTRIBUTED

MADISON COUNTY – Wi-Fi hotspots now are available to check out at Madison Public Library and the 11 other branches of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library.

“By using a Wi-Fi hotspot, library patrons can save money on their phone data plans and still have a personal Internet access point to take on vacation or to use in their cars, homes and any other place where they need to connect,” communications director Ann Marie Martin said.

Performance will vary, based on T-Mobile’s availability and the hotspot’s location in a building. “Users are advised to put the hotspot near a window in different areas to find its best performance,” Martin said.

Library cardholders can check out the hotspots for a small fee. The library system has 115 hotspots available. Fees are $10 for seven days or $20 for 14 days.

Patrons cannot renew Wi-Fi hotspots, unlike other library materials, like books, CDs and DVDs. “Patrons will have to return the hotspot to the library before it can be checked out again,” Martin said.

In other library activities, “New York Times” best-selling author Tim Dorsey will conduct a book signing at the downtown library, 915 Monroe St. in Huntsville, on Feb. 26 at noon. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m.

Dorsey is promoting his latest book, “Coconut Cowboy.” “‘The New York Post’ has named it one of their must-read books,” Martin said.

Dorsey’s novels were the basis for the television series, “Florida Roadkill.” According to the Post, Dorsey continues to tours but in an unusual way.

Called ‘old school,’ “Dorsey packs up his car and drives around the state of Florida and the country each year. He can connect with his fans and tell his wackiest stories from the road,” according to the Post.

For more information, visit hmcpl.org or Facebook/HMCPL.