by Timothy Rutt
The Altadena Library is a testbed in a state pilot project to make internet access available to more people through the public libraries.
According to Principal Librarian Pauli Dutton, the Altadena Libraries will be among 40 libraries around the state participating in the California Public Libraries Google Chromebook Pilot Project. "Chromebooks are a new type of computer which is lightweight with built-in security and so speedy they boot up in eight seconds," Dutton writes us. "With a Chromebook you have one-click-access to a world of apps and the web ... You can edit photos, create documents, spreadsheets, presentations and drawings using apps like Google Docs or ZohoWriter. You won’t need a disk to save your work because it all goes on the Cloud retrievable from any computer anytime. Although you can log in as guest, if you use your Google account, the computer will sign you into the services you usually use with access to your bookmarks, settings, and apps. "
The library will receive 15 Chromebooks, with 13 going to the main library and two to the Bob Lucas Branch Library. Checkout begins on Oct. 1. Patrons will need an Altadena Library card, a photo ID, and a signed agreement to use them in the library for up to three hours at a time. Those 14 years of age and older must have the above and in addition their Chrome and Internet agreement must also be signed by a parent or guardian .
The project's intent is to see about creating more internet access points in public libraries on easy-to-use devices that don't require large amounts of staff time. "All we need to do in return is have you try them out and give us your opinion on them," Dutton said. The program will last for one year and will be evaluated for best practices at six months and one year.
