Last year at this time, The Communicator reported on a new netbook checkout service being offered by the Helmke Library. Despite that program being little over a year old, the library wants to make new devices available—iPads.
Helmke recently approached the Indiana-Purdue Student Government Association (IPSGA) about this new project and they are currently engaged in talks about the possible collaboration. However, the request fell through.
IPSGA also funded the netbook program.
“We are currently working on something new with the library that will better the students needs and the needs of the library,” said student body president Terel Lynn.
Ipads are already in use by some faculty members as part of Project #mobileEDU.
The devices are tablet format with a touch screen. Keyboards come as accessories for an additional price. Without the keyboard, typing essays can be difficult. The devices can be used for web browsing, watching video and playing games. They also tend to have a longer battery life than a netbook, but less storage space.
The retail cost of an iPad is $499. HP ProBooks are similarly priced.
