Devices for Residents

Please note: All Chromebook computers have been distributed, we have no more to distribute to new participants and cannot replace broken or damaged Chromebooks.

March 2024 Updates

Need help using your Chromebook?

Email digital.inclusion@dc.gov for assistance.
Connect with one of our Digital Navigators for help learning how to use your Chromebook, or any other tech help question.
Come visit us at Arthur Capper TechExpress, our new temporary location staffed by Digital Navigators to get one-on-one help as needed.

The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) might be ending. What you should know:

The ACP will most likely run out of money in April 2024. That means that if you are getting discounted internet service through the program you will no longer receive the discount after April.
The program is no longer accepting new applicants.
You should be getting notices from your internet provider about your bill and your options moving forward- read those carefully.

Will this affect me?

There is a good chance you are receiving the ACP benefit if you:

Signed up for the ACP program through getinternet.gov
Signed up for and received discounted internet service in the past two years.
Received a "free government phone" and/or discounted tablet through a cell service provider.

One-year lease automatic renewal:

You were issued your Chromebook computer under a one-year lease. When your lease expires after one year, you do not have to give it back unless you want to. You will receive an email stating that it will automatically renew unless you indicate that you no longer want it.

Things to Know When Using Your Computer

You will not have to return your Chromebook. Yearly leases will be automatically renewed unless you opt out.
At the end of every computer session, downloaded items will be deleted. Upload anything you want to save to a cloud service like Google Drive. The computer will not save user passwords unless you log into your Google account.
The laptops are Library property and are governed by the Library’s Internet and Wireless Use Policy.
The laptops are centrally administered using software that allows the Library to send updates and alerts and share resources. The internet content of laptops is filtered to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
The library cannot replace lost or damaged devices. If your device is lost or damaged, please email digital.inclusion@dc.gov.

Getting Help

General Questions

For general questions about the Devices for Residents program and related library resources, email digital.inclusion@dc.gov.

Computer Classes

The Library offers computer training opportunities at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library and other library locations around the District. You can find a complete listing of upcoming in-person training courses on the Library’s program calendar.

In-person One-on-one Sessions

At in-person sessions, you can receive one-on-one help with computer basics such as setting up an email account, navigating the web, social media, using Zoom, accessing and downloading e-content, etc. You can schedule an appointment at 4 convenient library locations with one of our Digital Navigators.

Learn how to use your Chromebook online

Looking to expand your Chromebook skills from home?

We've got you covered! To start, head over to Google's Chromebook how-to page for an overview.

For more in-depth learning, check out the "Chromebook Basics" lesson on GCFLearnFree, a website with thousands of free lessons on technology and job skills that are quick and useful.

If you like podcasts, listen along to our What the Tech podcast, where we discuss the wild, wonderful, and often confusing world of new technology.

Want to learn more? Did you notice the icons at the bottom of the screen on your Chromebook?

With your DC Public Library card, you have access to thousands of hours of high-quality instructional videos on using technology.

Simply log in to the LinkedIn Learning app and start learning- click on the blue rectangle icon and follow the instructions to log in with your DC Public Library card.

For example, you can watch a course on Google Apps to master the tools available on your Chromebook. Try "Google Apps: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques" or "Google Drive Essential Training" for starters.

And if you're interested in learning something else, just use the search box at the top of the screen to find what you're looking for. Happy learning!