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Tech Help and Chromebooks

UPDATE: From April 1 – June 30, 2025, the SD Access 4 All Hotspot Lending Program will be temporarily paused to reconfigure or replace all hotspot devices currently in circulation. This process is necessary to ensure all devices meet federal E-Rate program requirements. Hotspot lending will resume on July 1, 2025. (Hotspot Fact Sheet English Hotspot Fact Sheet Spanish)

San Diego Access 4 All graphic
SD Access 4 All helps provide digital access and resources to the community by providing free Wi-Fi and internet access as well as laptop use at select library locations. Patrons may visit participating libraries and use this service available through our outdoor computer labs. We are excited to offer this service to patrons of all ages to access information, complete job searches and allow students to do their homework with a reliable internet connection. Members of the community are welcome to take advantage of this easy-to-use resource that is available to anyone who needs it.
 

Digital Navigators 

The Digital Navigator Program offers free, one-on-one assistance to help San Diegans obtain low-cost computers, sign up for affordable internet service, improve their computer skills or get basic tech support. Call 1-800-350-6945 to get help by phone or schedule an in-person appointment.

Learn more

March Digital Navigator schedule

April Digital Navigator schedule

Tech on the Go

A new mobile digital literacy program – Tech on the Go – is offering free in-person classes for any San Diegan who wants to learn how to use a computer and better navigate the internet. Classes are held at libraries and community centers and open to people of all skill levels. Check out the schedule and register for a class!

March Tech on the Go schedule

April Tech on the Go schedule

 

Chromebooks

The SD Access 4 All initiative provides internet access to families and households that need connectivity support. The mobile hotspots are easy to use and allow users to connect their laptop, tablet and other Wi-Fi enabled devices to the internet. Patrons must have a library card in good standing to check out a Chromebook.
 

Chromebook Guides

Photo of an open laptop.

HP Chromebook Enterprise 14 G7
Quick Start Guide

HP User Guide
 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  

Chromebooks

How do I check out a Chromebook kit?
Call one of the participating locations  or search the online catalog  to confirm if any Chromebook kits are available. To check out a kit, you must complete the Chromebook Use Agreement online located on the SD Access 4 All website. By checking the user agreement box, patrons acknowledge they have read the terms and conditions and agree to abide by the terms and conditions. Patrons must provide proof to staff (e.g. email confirmation) at the location where the equipment is being checked out that they have completed the agreement.
 
Who can check out a Chromebook kit?
Patrons age 12 and up with a valid library card. If you don’t have a library card, you can apply for one online. Patrons under 18 must have a parent/guardian complete the Chromebook Kit Use Agreement online form.
 
How long can I keep a Chromebook?
Chromebook kits may be borrowed for 90 days. Renewals are not available at this time. Overdue kits will have their Chromebooks remotely locked within 1-week beyond their due date.
 
Where can I return a Chromebook kit?
Chromebook kits must be returned to the San Diego Public Library location where they were checked out. They cannot be returned in book drops and must be returned at a service desk. You must return the device with all the original packaging and accessories. Please fully charge the battery on the Chromebook before you return the device.
 
How do I renew it?
Chromebooks are non-renewable at this time.
 
What if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged?

Please contact the library where the device(s) were borrowed, and file a police report if a device was stolen.

Can I reserve a Chromebook kit?

No. Chromebook kits are only available on first come first serve basis. Please call one of the participating locations  or search the online catalog to ensure availability.
 
How much does it cost?
Borrowing and using the devices are free! There is no cost associated with this service. These devices are available, thanks in part to funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund, administered by the Federal Communications Commission. However, failure to return equipment and/or any accessories can result in a fee to restore the kit as well as loss of check out privileges.
 
Can I use the devices when I travel outside the United States?
The Chromebooks can be used at any location, however, the hotspots and internet access will only be available in the U.S.
 
If the Chromebook or hotspot is prompted to update software or firmware, what should I do?
Chromebooks and hotspots periodically receive software updates from the service provider. You can accept the update, which may take a few minutes.
 
Is information about my computer and internet usage tracked by the library or the service provider?
The San Diego Public Library does not have access to or collects specific usage data and does not provide patron information to the service provider.