It almost goes without saying that any class in college will require some form of technology, whether it’s a computer or tablet. These devices can be expensive; however, the Stewart Library at Weber State University hopes to help combat this issue by offering a solution.
According to the Stewart Library’s circulation desk, there is a service that allows students to check out iPads, mini iPads and laptops for up to three days.
They also permit students to use their laptops for up to five hours while inside the library. These devices are not renewable and there’s a non-negotiable $1-per-hour late fee if a student doesn’t turn them in on time.
All devices checked out from the library need to be returned in the same condition they were in when they were checked out. If a device is not returned within seven days, then the student becomes responsible for the cost of replacing it.
Any device that is returned with damage has to be repaired. Once the damages are assessed, a registration hold is put on the student’s record until they pay the complete cost of the repairs.
This service has proven to be helpful for students, especially those who are dealing with a non-functioning device.
“I had to do that when my computer broke down,” Rebecca Shepard, criminal justice major, said. “It took me a few days to be able to get a new one but I didn’t have to miss time for homework.”
Taylor Leota, a criminal justice major, believes the service is useful and can be put to good use by students.
“I think it’s really helpful for those students that don’t have their own laptops and such,” Leota said.
This service provides clear benefits for students who might not have access to the same gadgets as others.
Maria Knudtson, a social work major, doesn’t have access to these devices on her own and finds the service beneficial for those who can’t spend all day in a school computer lab.
Both the main campus and Davis campus have always given students ample options in case they don’t have their own devices. Normally, students have to go to one of the computer labs to get their work done. Now, students also have access to a service that allows them to bring the devices home to continue their work.
Many classes at WSU are moving to an online model through Canvas—a software platform that gives students the ability to submit assignments and communicate with each other and their professors. This can leave students with a large amount of homework to be done online, which can’t always be completed while the student is on campus. The device checkout services at WSU give students the chance to get ahead and stay ahead.
