Do More with Public Computers: Try a Laptop

One of the most popular places in a library branch is the public computer stations. But what about when you need to attend a class, take a test, or interview for a job?  

During the summer of 2024, our Silverdale and Sylvan Way branches began trialing a new in-branch resource: laptops. For months, the Information Technology (IT) team was tackling the monumental task of installing Windows 11 across all library devices to modernize staff and patron experiences while increasing efficiency and cybersecurity. In the process, they discovered that several dozen staff laptops were not compatible with the new operating system…which the team saw as an opportunity. 

They adapted those laptops for public use and offered them for in-branch checkout. The results have been nothing short of inspiring.

"We have patrons pair our laptops with study rooms so they can take a test or even interview for a job. Since our laptops have cameras and our [desktop] computers do not, this is a huge asset for those who need this function,” said Beth Steinbach, the Public Services Supervisor at Sylvan Way.

The laptop pilot project was such a success that the IT team has expanded the program, installing laptop kiosks throughout the system. Now, library users age 14 and older can check out a laptop from a kiosk for in-branch use at the Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, or Sylvan Way libraries. And work is currently underway to install a laptop kiosk in the Bainbridge Island branch this fall as well. 

To use one of these laptops, patrons 14 years and older will scan their library card, select their laptop, and simply remove it from the kiosk. During checkout, the kiosk takes a security photo of the patron, which is stored in the system for up to 30 days before being automatically deleted. (See Security Camera Policy for more information.) Laptops can be checked out for up to two hours, and FAQs are available on the kiosks themselves to help answer any questions.

Silverdale Branch Manager Ana Cuprill Comas says library visitors have already found all sorts of uses for the laptops. “We had a patron who used it for occupational therapy with their teen. Of course, lots of Zoom meetings, as well as folks who want privacy to look at medical documents or financial information,” she said. “Whether for a class, meeting, or sensitive documents, the added privacy and accessibility are the biggest reasons people look for and use them again and again.”

Want to try out our public laptops for yourself? Check out a laptop from a branch near you! If you get stuck, just ask a library staff member at the help desk for assistance. We’re excited to see what other uses you can find for these new tools!