Purpose: Equal Access to Internet and Technology

About: The MSU Library understands the importance of equal access to Internet and technology. The library's technology lending service provides a free option for MSU Students and employees to borrow a variety of items, including laptops, iPads, and Wi-Fi hot spots. This service helps support equal access and helps bridge the digital divide by providing technology to users who do not have access due to affordability, availability, or additional reasons.

Please note: We lend to individuals only. We do not lend to organizations, units, or departments, and we are not a fee-based rental service for events. No items can be reserved in advance. See complete list of policies below. 

Length: Devices are available for short-term checkouts only, because the library has a limited number of items and we try to make items available to as many people as possible to promote equal access.

Where: You can check out all technology items at the library's Service Desk.

 

 

General Policies

  • A current MSU ID (CatCard) is required to borrow technologies.
    • Exception: Headphones may be checked out by community borrowers, who have a Montana Resident Courtesy Borrower Card (but not a CatCard).
  • High value items will require users to have a signed "Tech Checkout Use Agreement" form on file each semester. A signature is required before checkout (kept on file at the Service Desk) acknowledging the user has received, read, understands, and agrees to abide by all user policies as outlined by the MSU Library.
  • All items are available on a first come, first served basis. No reservations are taken for any tech items.
  • No renewals.
  • No back-to-back checkouts of the same device. The device must be turned in, and if another identical item is needed and available, patron may check out a different device.
  • Limit: 1 of each item (e.g. each patron may only checkout 1 laptop at a time, 1 iPad at a time, etc.)
  • Return inside at the front desk; please do not use the outside book drop when the library is closed. 
  • Save & delete your content; the MSU library is not responsible for deleting or retaining content
  • Equipment cannot be used in violation of the law or of Montana State University policies
  • All Library materials have replacement costs for lost or damaged items, as well as overdue fees; by borrowing items from the MSU Library the user is responsible for the replacement value of all items, and acknowledges that they understand and agree to all policies as outlined by the Library.
  • Users will assume a $25.00 processing charge for all damaged or lost items regardless of whether a replacement fee is assessed or the item is under warranty.

Various device chargers are provided for the convenience of our patrons, and charger wattage varies; users assume all risk & liability for damage to any non-library devices used in conjunction with chargers and other equipment borrowed from the Library. 

Dell Laptops and Cords

 
Item Policy Availability
Dell Laptop Latitude 3510 3 day checkout, $10/day fine; $1,050 replacement with a $25 processing fee
Dell Latitude Power Adapter  3 day checkout; $2/day fine; $55 replacement with a $25 processing fee
HP Power Adapter and Cord 4 hour checkout; $2/day fine; $55 replacement with a $25 processing fee
Dell 65 Watt Power Adapter and Cord   4 hour checkout; $2/day fine; $55 replacement with a $25 processing fee
Dell 90 Watt Charger and Cable (2) 4 hour checkout; $2/day fine; $55 replacement with a $25 processing fee

Laptop Policies

  • 3 day loan period for Dell Latitude 3510 Laptops
  • Overdue fines: $10/day
  • Anyone with an MSU ID  (CatCard) can check out a Laptop
  • 1 laptop limit
  • First come, first served (no reservations taken)
  • No renewals
  • No back-to-back checkouts of the same device. The device must be turned in, and if another identical item is needed and available, patron may check out a different device.
  • Lost, broken or damaged items: User will be charged the replacement cost of the items plus a $25 processing fee.
    • Laptop replacement cost: $1,050
    • Users will assume a $25.00 processing charge for all damaged or lost items regardless of whether a replacement fee is assessed or the item is under warranty.
  • Signature required before checkout (kept on file at the Service Desk) acknowledging user has received, read, understands, and agrees to abide by all user policies as outlined by the MSU Library.

iPads

 
Item Policy Availability
Apple iPad 3 day checkout, $10/day fine, $790 replacement with a $25 processing fee

iPad Policies 

  • 3 day loan period for all iPads
  • Overdue fines: $10/day
  • Anyone with an MSU ID  (CatCard) can check out an iPad
  • 1 iPad limit
  • First come, first served (no reservations taken)
  • No renewals
  • No back-to-back checkouts of the same device. The device must be turned in, and if another identical item is needed and available, patron may check out a different device.
  • Lost, broken or damaged items: user will be charged the replacement cost plus a $25 processing fee.
    • Replacement cost: $750 iPad & case; $40 charger
    • Users will assume a $25.00 processing charge for all damaged or lost items regardless of whether a replacement fee is assessed or the item is under warranty.
  • Signature required before checkout (kept on file at the Service Desk) acknowledging user has received, read, understands, and agrees to abide by all user policies as outlined by the MSU Library.

Hot Spots

Wi-Fi Hot Spots are small devices that allow for Internet access via cellular signals (data plans paid for courtesy of the MSU Library). The devices are portable and allow you to connect your computer, smartphone, or other device to the Internet when a cell signal is present. Important Tip: These devices do not generate internet access, they piggy-back onto existing celllular signals. If there is no cell signal, no internet will be provided via the hot spot.

  • Providers:
    • T-Mobile Alcaltel: 3 hot spots
    • Verizon MiFi: 14 hot spots
 
Item Policy Availability
T-Mobile Hot Spot 3 week checkout, $10/day fine, $200 replacement fee for the hot spot, a $10.00 fee for the charging cord, and a $25 processing fee for lost, damaged, or non-returned hot spots
Verizon Hot Spot 3 week checkout, $10/day fine, $200 replacement fee for the hot spot, a $10.00 fee for the charging cord, and a $25 processing fee for lost, damaged, or non-returned hot spots

Hot Spot Policies

  • Hot spots may be checked out by current MSU students, faculty, and staff using an MSU ID (Cat Card).
  • Items are available on a first come, first served basis. No reservations taken.
  • We do not allow items to be renewed. However, when you return your hot spot, if another device is available, you may check it out. 
  • 1 hot spot limit per user.
  • Overdue fines: $10/day and after 3 days hot spot data will be turned off.
  • Lost, broken or damaged items: user will be charged the replacement cost for item(s).
    • Hot spot replacement cost: $200.00
    • Charging cord replacement cost: $10
  • Signature required before checkout (kept on file by the library) acknowledging user has received, read, understands, and agrees to abide by all user policies as outlined by the MSU Library.
  • We are also collecting data on hot spot usage.

GoPros

 
Item Policy Availability
GoPro HERO11 Camera 3-day checkout, $10/day fine
GoPro HERO7 Camera 3-day checkout, $10/day fine
GoPro HERO3 Camera 3-day checkout, $10/day fine
GoPro Handler (floating hand grip)
3-day checkout, $2/day fine
GoPro Gumby (flexible mount)
3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Wrist Mount 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Suction Cup Mount 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Chest Mount 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Tripod Mount 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Rechargeable Battery 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
GoPro Head Strap 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
G5 Handheld Gimbal  3-day checkout, $10/day fine

GoPro Policies 

  • 3 day loan period for all cameras and accessories
  • Overdue fines:
    • Cameras: $10/day
    • Accessories: $2/day 
  • Anyone with an MSU ID  (CatCard) can check out a GoPro
  • 1 camera limit, with multiple accessories 
  • First come, first served
  • No renewals
  • No back-to-back checkouts of the same device. The device must be turned in, and if another identical item is needed and available, patron may check out a different device.
  • Lost, broken or damaged items: user will be charged the replacement cost plus a $25 processing fee.
    • Camera replacement cost: $350
  • Signature required before checkout (kept on file at the Service Desk) acknowledging user has received, read, understands, and agrees to abide by all user policies as outlined by the MSU Library.

Cameras and Projectors

 
Item Policy Availability
Canon Digital Camera (3) 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $1,510 replacement
Canon 50mm Lens 1:1.4 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $300 replacement with a $25 processing fee
Canon Camcorder 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $300 replacement with a $25 processing fee
Hot Shoe ¼ Inch Adapter 3-day checkout, $2/day fine; ?? replacement with a $25 processing fee
Mini Tripod 3-day checkout, $2/day fine; ?? replacement with a $25 processing fee
Projector 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $700 replacement
Projector Peripherals 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Projector Screen 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Sony Handycam 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $300 replacement with a $25 processing fee
Tripod 3-day checkout, $2/day fine

Calculators

 
Item Policy Availability
Basic Calculator 4 hour checkout, $2/day fine
TI-30X IIS 2-Line Scientific Calculator 4 hour checkout, $2/day fine
TI-83 Graphing Calculator 4 hour checkout, $2/day fine
TI-89 Titanium Graphing Calculator 4 hour checkout, $2/day fine

Miscellaneous Computer Stuff

 
Item Policy Availability
16 GB USB Flash Drive 4-hour checkout
External USB CD/DVD Burner 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Floppy Drive 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Mouse 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Multimedia Card Reader   3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Transcription USB Foot Pedal   3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Stylus Pen  3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Garmin eTrex GPS  3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Logitech Webcam 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine; $100 replacement with a $25 processing fee
Wireless Presenter  4-hour checkout, $2/day fine

Adapters, Cables, and Cords

Various device chargers are provided for the convenience of our patrons, and charger wattage varies; users assume all risk & liability for damage to any non-library devices used in conjunction with chargers and other equipment borrowed from MSU Library. 

 
Item Policy Availability
Apple 30-Pin to USB Cable 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple Lightning to Headphone Jack 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple Lightning to USB Cable  4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple Lightning to HDMI Adapter 4-hour checkout,, $2/day fine
Apple USB-C Power Adapter and Cable
4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple  MagSafe 2 Power Adapter
4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple MagSafe Power Adapter
4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple MagSafe Extension Cord  4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple USB Power Adapter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Apple Mini DVI to VGA adapter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Extension Cord 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
HDMI Cable 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
HDMI to Mini HDMI 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
HDMI to VGA Adapter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Micro USB Power Adapter & Cable 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Mini Display Port to HDMI Cable 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Network Cable 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Surface Pro Charger 44 Watt 4-hour checkout, $2 day fine
USB Power Adapter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
USB-C to USB Adapter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
USB-C to HDMI & USB-C F 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
USB-C to Ethernet Adapter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
VGA Cable 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
XLR-XLR Cable (15 ft)   3-day checkout, $2/day fine
XLR Mini Cable (10ft) 3-day checkout, $2/day fine

Sound Equipment

 
Item Policy Availability
Headphones - Basic (many) 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Headphones - Noise Canceling (2) 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Headphone Splitter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Digital Voice Recorder  3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Lapel Microphone  3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Audio-Technica AT2005 USB Microphone 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $80 replacement
Rode NT-USB Microphone 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $160 replacement
Rode VideoMic Pro 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $190 replacement
Shure SM58 Microphone +USB 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $200 replacement
Sony Dynamic Stereo Headphones 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $100 replacement
Beachtek DXA-Micro Pro Audio Adapter 3-day checkout, $10/day fine; $150 replacement
iRig2 Mobile Guitar Interface 3-day checkout, $2/day fine
Zoom H4n Handy Recorder
3-day checkout, $10/day fine

Old School

 
Item Policy Availability
Bicycle Lock 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
18-inch Ruler 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Dry Erase Markers and Eraser 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Electric Typewriter 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Protractor 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Scissors 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine

Citizen Science Kits

The MSU Library is partnering with the MSU Science Math Resource Center to provide Citizen Science kits to all MSU Library users, including community borrowers.

A citizen science kit holds everything needed to gather data for a specific citizen science project. Each kit was field-tested by librarians and patrons and includes a printed activity guide, helpful tips, and any specialized tools or materials needed to complete the project.

Libraries across the country are circulating citizen science kits, hosting events, and collaborating with their communities to enable participation in citizen science. The kits below were selected and procured by MSU's Science Math Resource Center using funds from an NSF EPSCoR grant.

 
Item Policy Availability
Citizen Science Kit #1: Dark Skies - Measuring Light in the Night 3-week checkout, $10/day fine
Citizen Science Kit #2: Observing Pollinators 3-weekcheckout, $10/day fine
Citizen Science Kit #3: Exploring Biodiversity 3-weekcheckout, $10/day fine
Citizen Science Kit #4: Water Wonders - EarthEcho Water Challenge & Crowd the Tap 3-weekcheckout, $10/day fine

Light Therapy Lamps

According to the Mayo Clinic, a light therapy box mimics outdoor light. It's thought that this type of light may "cause a chemical change in the brain that lifts your mood and eases other symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), such as being tired most of the time and sleeping too much.” Recommended daily usage is 15 minutes.

Item Policy Availability

Happy Light Touch Plus

Has controls for hue, brightness, and session timer.

4-hour checkout, $2/day fine
Happy Light Lucent 4-hour checkout, $2/day fine

Lab Equipment

Item Policy Availability

Lab Safety Goggles

4-hour checkout, $2/day fine

Molecular Model Kit

4-hour checkout, $2/day fine