New Mobile Connectivity Options at the Hillsborough Library

Google Chromebooks are now available to borrow within the Hillsborough Library.  The size of netbooks (small laptop computers), Chromebooks rely completely on cloud computing to operate and for hosting all the productivity software that a user might need.  The computers connect to the internet and other devices via WiFi, which is already available at the Hillsborough Library.

The Chromebooks will allow patrons of the library to move around the interior of the facility without having to sit in any particular spot.  Lent out for four hour periods with one renewal period of two hours, users will need to use a Google account or log in as a guest will in order to save any work or information accessed on the web.  Information and documents can be saved in the Google Docs environment, in Picasso for images or through a cloud storage app.  Google Docs is a cloud-based productivity suite which takes the place of Microsoft Office and other such software tools.

“We’re thrilled to be able to add more computers to the mix for patrons at the Hillsborough Library,” notes branch director Edward Hoag.  “We get to offer more services without needing to claim additional space in the library for a desktop computer set up.  Because the Chromebooks’ battery charge lasts about eight hours, we also don’t need to worry about having additional electrical outlets out on the floor.  We’ll charge them in the back office areas of the library and have the computers all set to go when patrons borrow them.”

Rich Loomis, Electronic Services Librarian sees additional benefits for patrons and library staff.  “Updates for all the software, including antivirus and firewall protection is all done automatically through the computer’s instant connection to the internet.  There is virtually no software maintenance meaning that patrons will be able to have more time with the Chromebooks as library staff will not need to spend time on fixing or upgrading the computers.  Another benefit of the computers is their quick start-up time of about eight seconds.”

Chromebooks are available to all Somerset County Library System card holders at the Hillsborough Library through the Circulation Desk there.  Driver’s licenses will also be needed to borrow Chromebooks.

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)369-2200 ext. 13 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

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