Borrowing a tablet can help if you:
- struggle to access digital equipment and computers
- want help getting online for social interaction, education, work, wellbeing or boosting your IT skills
Our library staff can talk you through the basics of the device, so even if you have never touched a computer before, you will feel confident enough to take your first steps online.
How it works
Express your interest with your library. You can do this in person or by phone or email.
We will contact you to discuss the loan of the tablet.
You need to be a library member. We can check this for you.
We will give you a loan agreement. You need to sign it to state you understand and agree to the terms.
Borrowing the device
We will let you know when the tablet is ready for collection from a library convenient to you.
Please bring in the signed agreement and we will give you the tablet, charging cable, adapter and introductory notes. If you think you may need more help, we can arrange for a librarian to meet with you instead.
The initial loan period is 6 weeks. There is an option to extend by a further 6 weeks if needed.
Returning the device
Return the device by the agreed return date (or arrange renewal).
All devices are managed remotely and can be rendered unusable at any time.
Once returned we will wipe (factory reset) the device. Any data and search history will be deleted.
Charges
The tablets are free to borrow.
Overdue and damage charges apply.
The device is fairly robust and protected with a sturdy case and screen protector, so we expect damage to be rare. We charge up to a maximum of £250 for damage.
Available apps
- BBC iPlayer
- BBC News
- BBC Sounds (radio and podcasts)
- BBC Bitesize (National Curriculum revision)
- Adobe Acrobat (PDF reader)
- Google Chrome (web browser)
- BorrowBox (ebooks and e-audiobooks - free to library members)
- Freegal Music (download and stream music - free to library members)
- PressReader (newspapers and magazines - free to library members)
- VLC
- Zoom (online meetings)
- Google services
- Gmail (email)
- Maps
- Sheets (spreadsheets)
- Slides (presentations)
- YouTube
- Microsoft Teams (online meetings)
Some apps will need internet access.
If you do need internet access, you can connect to local wifi. Wifi (and comfortable seating) is available free of charge at all our library branches.