How you can borrow a Chromebook laptop for free at the Palm Springs Public Library

Palm Springs residents can now use their library cards to check out Google Chromebook laptops just as they would books or DVDs.

The Palm Springs Public Library announced Monday that it is now lending 12 Google Chromebook kits, which consist of a Chromebook, a case and a charger. The kits can be checked out for two weeks. The program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, the $9.1 trillion economic stimulus passed by Congress in March, according to a library press release.

The library is billing the Chromebooks as the latest step in an ongoing effort to help bridge the digital divide by helping library patrons to gain access to the internet and a device that allows them to search it.

Last year, the library introduced a program that allows patrons to check out mobile hot spots that can provide internet to up to 10 devices anywhere in the continental U.S. That program was funded by the Palm Springs Library Foundation.

“We believe these Chromebooks will provide a needed resource for those without a device,” said Jeannie Kays, director of library services. “Connecting people to information is what the library is all about.”

Patrons can place a hold on a Chromebook kit, but they are not renewable. If a patron does not return the Chromebook at the end of the 14-day lending period, the device is turned off.

Paul Albani-Burgio covers breaking news and the City of Palm Springs. Follow him on Twitter at @albaniburgiop and via email at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Chromebook laptops available for checkout at Palm Springs library