Nanuet Library Adds Chromebooks and Wi-Fi Hotspots For Loan

Nanuet Public Library is now offering Chromebook laptops and mobile Wi-Fi hotspots for 1-week loan periods to Nanuet cardholders. The Chromebooks are basic laptop computers with an Internet browser, webcam, speaker, and microphone. The Wi-Fi hotspots are small, portable devices which give wireless internet service to devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, or a Library Chromebook. Hotspots feature unlimited data plans and can be used to connect multiple devices in the same household.

Nanuet Library Director, Jessica Bowen, says "Libraries are always evolving to meet the changing needs of the community. I'm pleased that we here at Nanuet are able to add this Chromebook and hotspot loan program at a time when it is most needed. We're hopeful that this service helps in some small way to ease the stress of getting through the pandemic by keeping people in our community connected to the resources they need."

Bob Boyle, Adult Services Librarian, added to this, saying "During this time when important in-person library services like public computers and hands-on instruction are not an option, it was necessary for us to think about ways we could provide access in people's homes. We offer technology classes and a ‘Book a Librarian’ service for remote instruction by Zoom and phone, but that is possible only if the person is connected at home. In addition, all library programs are now online through Zoom and social media sites. These devices will allow people who ordinarily wouldn't be able to participate to stay connected with their community and engage in learning and fun."

Even if patrons already have Internet at home, families are dealing with multiple people in the same household competing for computer time, with parents working from home and children learning remotely. Being able to borrow a Chromebook or hotspot should ease some of that struggle. Kim Naples, Head of Adult Services at Nanuet, said "We want to help people who either don't have laptops and Internet or don't have enough laptops and fast enough Internet. We hope to help people work from home, find work from home, and students in school. We offer job skill training online for free through Lynda/LinkedIn Learning. People can also stream movies and music for free online with Hoopla and Kanopy. There are also free eBooks and digital audiobooks on Libby/Overdrive and Hoopla."

Nanuet Library patrons who are interested in borrowing either a Chromebook or a hotspot should contact Reference Staff at 845-623-4281, ext. 2. Curbside pickup of materials and Nanuet Library programs are available to all RCLS cardholders. For information on this and all other library programs and services, visit www.nanuetpubliclibrary.org.