On June 21, 2017 – Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library is making Chromebooks available to library card holders age 14 and older on a first-come, first-served basis. Ten Chromebooks were purchased through the Southern California Edison’s Building 21^st Century Skills for Tweens and Teens’ Grant. Chromebooks can be checked out for two hours per day for in-library use. There is no fee to check out, however, late fees and total replacement costs will apply if a Chromebook is returned late or is lost.

The Chromebook, a simplified, lightweight laptop computer based on Google’s Chrome browser, is fast, secure, and simple to use. It uses cloud computing rather than software or storing files directly on the computer. Because all operations take place through the web rather than on the computer, Chromebooks do not require manual updates, security software, or resetting to maintain privacy, unlike traditional laptops.

“This is an amazing opportunity for the library to make new technologies accessible to everyone regardless of income or technology experience,” said Technical Services Senior Librarian Evena Shu. “Today’s library is not only a place to get books, but also a place for anyone to learn the skills demanded by the rapidly changing world of information.”

For more information about the free program, contact the library at 626-307-1368 and/or follow on Twitter @MontereyParkLib.

The Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library is the city’s public library located at 318 S. Ramona Avenue, Monterey Park, CA 91754. Library hours are Sunday 1-5 p.m.; Monday and Tuesday 12-9 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For more City of Monterey Park news and information, please visit the city website at www.MontereyPark.ca.gov.