HIT: Laptop circulation feedback

["Kay Knight, PHS Librarian" <PEHS_LIB@NOECA.OHIO.GOV>]

I have received about 25 responses and the opinion is that exceedingly limited
circulation with specific teacher assignment, signed student "responsibility"
form and three night limit has a mild success.  The overwhelming response was
laptops were treated poorly, returned with cords missing, junk on hard drives,
cases torn, repairs were so great that frequently a "professional" had to be
called in (or laptop taken) for repairs.  Budgets did not keep up with the ex-
pense needed to maintain the program. . .my local public library discontinued
the program and is reworking the whole idea.  It is the opinion of the majority
or those responding that AlphaSmarts or Dreamwriters be used for circulation.
They are simpler, cheaper, not so much can go wrong, circulation turn around
time is faster/easier, nearly zero for replacement/repair, and more can be
purchased.  Most students need a basic word processor and this meets the need.
Many thanks to all those that responded.  Your knowledge and practical ex-
perience are wonderful.  Kay