California Library to start loaning out Chromebooks in 2012

If you happen to find yourself in Palo Alto, California, and you were looking for a laptop to rent, the California Library will soon start loaning out Google’s Chromebooks to patrons for up to a whole week at a time. This seems to be in line with Google’s stance on the Chromebook’s ability to act as a “disposable computer”, especially since data and apps reside mainly in the cloud, thus allowing users to transfer the Chromebook amongst each other.

It sounds like a good idea and can provide computers to patrons who might not be able to otherwise afford one for themselves. The program will kick off in January of 2012 so if you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to live and use a Chromebook, you will soon be able to find out for yourselves, just pop on by the California Library where they will be offering 21 Chromebooks for loan. We’re not sure what the fine print is here, but for starters we’re guessing that the Chromebook has to be returned in good condition otherwise there will be charges incurred. Seems pretty reasonable.