Whittier Public Library is pleased to be offering this new Chromebook service through a grant provided by the California State Library. Chromebooks are available for checkout for 3-weeks. Users will need to be at least 18 years old, with a library card in good standing and a picture ID.

 How it works:

1. Review and sign the Lending Agreement
2. Use your Whittier Public Library card to check out a Chromebook and/or Hotspot.
3. Check that all items are in the bag-let staff know immediately if something is missing.

Whittier Public Library Chromebook FAQs

A Chromebook is a different kind of laptop. It runs a web browser (Google Chrome) and nothing else. Because you need to be connected to the internet to use one, Whittier Public Library’s Chromebooks will only work with a Wi-Fi connection. It will start up more quickly than a laptop or PC because it does not run many processes. Anything you can do via the internet you can do on a Chromebook.

The Chromebook is ideal for email, web searches, searching library databases—in fact anything internet-based. You can also create a Google account and download apps to do things like word processing or spreadsheets.

Chromebooks provide instant use, are fast and require very little maintenance. They are also less expensive than standard laptops.

Because it is web-based, it runs Google’s own applications which include things like word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software and Google Mail. Once you create a Google account you can download apps to use on the Chromebook, or any other computer you log into.

Chromebooks use web apps and websites, so you can’t install traditional software on them.

You select a Wi-Fi network. Once online you can browse the internet as a guest or log into your Google account. If you choose to browse as a guest you won’t be able to download or use apps, however.

The Chromebook will check out for a 3-week period. 

Once an item is overdue, the Library may shut down the device. Borrowers with a Chromebook or a Hotspot that is 14 days overdue will be charged the full replacement cost.

No, it’s on a first come, first served basis.

Yes.  You will be able to check it out for 3 weeks only.

You are responsible for the Chromebook while it is in your possession, so if it is damaged or stolen you will be responsible to pay for the repair or replacement of the item. Do not leave the Chromebook unattended in the Library, a car or anywhere it may be damaged and be very careful not to let it drop or fall, as that can break the screen.