Bigger isn’t always better: the case for netbooks

Clark College Libraries offer both laptops and netbooks for check out. Most of us are familiar with laptops, but what about netbooks? Netbooks offer several features that make them attractive options for student use.

1. Portability
Laptops may be portable, but netbooks are ultra-portable! They weigh less and they take up less space in your backpack – a major bonus when your bag is already loaded down with heavy textbooks.

2. The right tool for the job
Cloud computing is a big deal in technology right now, and netbooks are a great access point for all of your cloud stored documents. Working on a paper? Try Google Drive! Use this cloud-based web service from your netbook and you’ll be able to access it from any internet connected device. Laptops certainly would win in a CPU power fight, but sometimes you don’t need all that power!

3. Built-in webcam
Clark netbooks come with a built-in webcam, making it easy to collaborate in real-time. Group project? Schedule a meeting in Google Hangouts and chat with your group members from anywhere! Netbooks make collaboration simple and straightforward.

Clark offers netbooks for a checkout period of 3 hours. 21 day extended loan netbooks are available at Cannell library. Be sure to review the loan rules with library staff prior to checkout, as failure to comply can result in hefty fines. Next time you’re thinking about checking out a computer, consider asking for a netbook! After all, good things come in small packages.