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Westborough library installs 32 new public computers, pilots cloud printing and rolls out mobile lab
Summary
Library staff said they deployed 32 new public desktop computers under a Mass Broadband Institute grant, replaced lending laptops with full-function machines, launched a mobile computer lab and will pilot a cloud printing upgrade July 6.
Library staff told trustees June 24 they have completed delivery of equipment provided through a Mass Broadband Institute grant and replaced public computers with 32 full desktop machines, enabling a new on-site computer lab and expanded lending options.
The director said the library also replaced its previous Chromebooks with fully functional lending laptops; patrons can use some laptops in-house or check others out for two-week loan periods. "We were able to replace all of our public computers," the director said, noting two additional units remain boxed for deployment at the new site.
Staff piloted a mobile computer lab (intro to Canva) using a cart of laptops to run programming in children’s, teen and adult spaces. Caitlyn Staples, technology and collections librarian, said the mobile lab had modest attendance and that the laptop cart will be useful in the new building for targeted classes and outreach.
On July 6 the library will be the first in its CW Mars group to pilot an upgraded cloud-based printing service that staff said will simplify public printing and allow more granular controls on free printing limits. The director said the upgrade should make printing more seamless across public computers and mobile devices.
Trustees discussed technical constraints for the move, including CW Mars and internet cutover logistics; staff emphasized the importance of coordinating with Spectrum/Charter and CW Mars so the new site can be activated without long service interruptions.
