Borrow a Chromebook

What Is a Chromebook?

A Chromebook functions like a laptop and runs on the Google operating system, Chrome OS. It has cloud storage and built-in Google apps. A Chromebook is best used with a reliable Wi-Fi (wifi) connection.

Compare Chromebooks

What Is a Web Filter?

A web filter is designed to restrict which websites users can visit. There are a few more things to know about web filters:

• The intent is to block websites considered threatening or harmful.
• Web filters are not perfect. They can't block all threatening and harmful websites. They may block access to legitimate research sites.
• Web filters do not protect users from cyber bullying, financial crimes, computer viruses, or other illegal activities.

Learn more about protecting yourself and others online with our Virtual Privacy Lab.

How to Borrow a Chromebook

• STEP 1: Find a Chromebook at your chosen library location and request it:
  • Find an Unfiltered Chromebook.
  • Find a Filtered Chromebook.
• STEP 2: Wait to be notified by email or phone once your Chromebook is ready for pickup.
• STEP 3: When you arrive at the library, let a staff member know you are picking up your Chromebook.
• STEP 4: When you pick up the Chromebook, staff will review the Device Policy and User Agreement before you sign it. Here is the agreement if you want to look at it before picking up your Chromebook: English | Español | Tiếng Việt.

Please Note:

• Physical Library Card: If you have an eLibrary Card, you will need to convert it to one of our physical library cards. You need a physical library card account to check out devices. You can get your card by visiting any of our 25 library locations. To get your physical card, bring a valid photo ID and proof of address with you. Our library staff can also help you get your device.
• Checkout Period: The checkout period is 90 days with one auto renewal of 30 days if there are no other requests on the item.
• Ages 17 and Under: Library members ages 17 and under need to be accompanied by an adult to pick up their Chromebook.
• Holds Limit: Each member is limited to 2 holds for all SJ Access Devices. This includes hotspots, Chromebooks, iPads, and laptops.
• Wi-Fi for Unfiltered Chromebooks: You must use an internet connection for Unfiltered Chromebooks. Need Wi-Fi (wifi)? Request a Wi-Fi (wifi) hotspot.
• Wi-Fi for Filtered Chromebooks: Filtered Chromebooks are already connected to the internet.
• Digital Literacy Training: In guest mode on unfiltered Chromebooks, Digital Literacy curriculum is available. These are free, self-paced computer classes. They cover how to use the internet, laptops, and more. You can also take these classes from other devices.

How to Return Your Chromebook

• Hand your device to a staff member.
• Do not return your Chromebook in the book drop.

COVID-19 Safety

Before visiting an SJPL location, please review our Safety Guidelines.

Need Help?

• User Manual (PDF): English | Español | Tiếng Việt | 中文
• Device Policy and User Agreement (PDF): English | Español | Tiếng Việt
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Call us at 408-808-2000.
• Chat with us 7 days a week.