Talbot County Free Library (TCFL) patrons can now officially check out iPads at Easton and St. Michaels Library for a 14-day period.
All one has to do is bring in their library card, and check out the device that comes with a USB cord. There are currently seven iPads in Easton and three in St. Michaels that check out on a first-come, first-served basis.
“The iPads were paid for with funding that was awarded to the library from the Maryland State Library Agency competitive grant. Public libraries throughout Maryland apply for these funds on a yearly basis by filling out an application which details the project for which they need funding,” said Dana Newman, Talbot County Free Library Director. “Funds are limited so all libraries applying may not get funded. The funding for this grant comes from federal funding provided to libraries through the Library Services Technology Act.”
Wi-Fi will be required for internet use, and if one does not have access to Wi-Fi, the library offers Kajeet Wi-Fi hot spots for checkout if available.
For almost three years, TCFL has expanded its digital collection and sees a promising future where all digital resources will be available for checkout, including laptops as well.
“We believe that adding iPads to circulation is an essential offering to our patrons. They need the opportunity to have a resource that will enhance their access to apply for a job, do school work and research, and to have access to our eResources,” said Newman. “In the future, the library hopes to expand its collection with more digital devices so that our patrons can have options when it comes to doing their daily tasks.”
For more information about the iPads, schedule an appointment through email at [email protected], or call the Easton branch at (410) 822-1626 or St. Michaels branch at (410) 745-5877.
About Talbot County Free Library
It is the mission of the Talbot County Free Library to enrich and renew the lives of the people it serves. There are two locations: The main library in Easton is located at 100 W. Dover St.; and the St. Michael branch is at 106 Fremont St. The Maryland Room in the Easton branch holds a voluminous collection of genealogical resources and historical documents. Services at both locations include the circulation of books, DVDs, and digital devices, as well as free Wi-Fi, public computers, exhibits, and programs for both children and adults. Many of the Talbot County Free Library’s programs are made possible by the generous support of the local community. For more information, please visit www.tcfl.org. Be sure to like the library on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @Talbotcountyfreelibrary.
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