WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?
Use your valid library card to sign out a laptop computer for 2 months and a colour printer. In addition, our Computer Lending Coordinator will introduce you to the operation of the computer and will provide technical support if you have any questions along the way. Thanks to a generous donations from: Arts a la Carte; Community Initiatives Program; Computers for Schools and Libraries; Friends of the Red Deer Public Library; Telus, The Red Deer Public School District #104 and David Thompson Health Region.

HISTORY:
The Computer Lending Program (formerly The Technology Lending Project) began through the efforts of Partners in Education (PIE), in cooperation with the Dawe Branch Library. PIE was a joint effort of the education community, the business community, and the community of Red Deer, actively involved in building a learning culture and maximizing the benefits of community resources. In November 1999, Red Deer Public Library absorbed the Project and is committed to these same goals through the Computer Lending Program. 

PURPOSE:
The Computer Lending Program was created to put computers into the hands of those who may not otherwise have a computer in their home, who may be just a little afraid of plugging in and turning on their first computer, or who need to have a computer on a temporary basis for anything from typing a resume to printing their first short story!

HOW DO I GET ONE?
To sign out a laptop computer and printer from the Dawe Branch Library, all you need is a valid Red Deer Public Library membership. The laptop includes Windows 98SE, OpenOffice software which is completely compatible with Microsoft Office, typing tutorials, dictionaries, a few games, virus protection, removable floppy and CD/DVD-ROM drives and a mouse, all stored in a laptop carrying case. These laptops are internet ready and all you need to do is set up your own internet account with the internet provider of you choice. Laptops and printers are loaned for 2 months with a possible extension.

WHAT IF I NEED HELP?
Included with your computer package is basic instruction on how to set up the computer at home, a software tutorial on the use of a computer, as well as a Help Line number to contact if you need any help with connecting and using your computer. This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to get a basic working knowledge of the operation of a computer.

For more information on the program, please call and make an appointment with:
Sharlene Garden, Coordinator Computer Lending Program
Dawe Branch, Red Deer Public Library
TEL 403-314-9089   FAX 403-343-2120   EMAIL sgarden@rdpl.org

Take Home A Computer Today!