Temple's laptop rental program is for current students, faculty, and staff
Temple University runs a laptop rental program through its library system, available to people with active Temple IDs. The program is designed to give you short-term access to a computer when you need one for coursework, research, or campus work — not as a permanent replacement for owning a device. Rental periods are typically measured in days or weeks, and you return the laptop to the same location where you picked it up.
The specifics of what's available, how long you can keep a laptop, and any fees involved depend on which Temple campus you're on and which library branch you visit. Temple has multiple locations in Philadelphia, and each may have different inventory and policies. Your best first step is to contact your campus library directly rather than assuming the details you find online still apply.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid Temple ID to rent a laptop, and the program is limited to current students, faculty, and staff.
- Rental periods and equipment available vary by library location, so call or visit the branch nearest you to learn what they have.
- You'll need to show your Temple ID at pickup and may need to leave a form of payment on file in case the laptop is damaged or not returned.
- Most library rental programs require you to return equipment by a specific time on a specific day, so confirm the deadline when you pick up the laptop.
Where to rent a laptop on campus
Temple's main library is Paley Library, located on the main campus in Center City Philadelphia. The circulation desk at Paley handles equipment rentals, including laptops. If you're on a different Temple campus — such as the Ambler campus northwest of the city — check whether that location has its own library with rental equipment, because policies and availability differ.
You can also contact Temple's main library phone line or visit the library website to ask which branches currently have laptops available. Inventory changes based on demand and repairs, so a laptop might be in stock one week and out the next. Calling ahead saves you a trip if you're counting on a specific piece of equipment.
What you need to bring to pick up a laptop
Bring your valid Temple ID — the same card you use to enter buildings and access other campus services. The library staff will scan or record your ID number to track who has the equipment. Some rental programs also ask for a second form of identification, though this varies by location.
Ask the staff member at the desk whether you need to provide a payment method — a credit card or debit card — to hold on file. This protects the library if the laptop is damaged, lost, or not returned by the deadline. You won't be charged unless something goes wrong, but the card needs to be present at pickup. If you don't have a card, ask whether the library accepts other forms of security deposit or payment arrangement.
How long you can keep a laptop
Rental periods at Temple libraries are usually short — often 24 hours, sometimes extending to a few days depending on demand and the specific branch. During busy times in the semester, the library may shorten rental windows so more students can access equipment. During slower periods, you might be able to keep a laptop longer.
When you pick up the laptop, the staff member will tell you the exact date and time you need to return it. Write this down or take a photo of the receipt they give you. Late returns can result in fines, and equipment left past closing time may be locked in the building until the next business day, making it harder for you to retrieve it.
What happens if the laptop is damaged or lost
If you damage the laptop during your rental period, tell the library staff immediately when you return it. They'll document the damage and determine whether it's normal wear or something that requires repair. Minor scratches or dents usually don't result in charges, but cracked screens, broken keyboards, or liquid damage typically do.
The cost of repairs or replacement comes from the payment method you left on file at pickup. If the laptop is lost or stolen, you'll be charged the full replacement cost, which can be several hundred dollars. To avoid this, keep the laptop with you at all times — don't leave it unattended in a study room, café, or lounge, even for a few minutes.
Alternatives if laptops are not available
If Temple's laptop rental program is fully booked or doesn't meet your needs, the library also has desktop computers available for use in the building. These are free to use while you're on campus, though you can't take them with you. You can also ask library staff about other resources — some departments loan equipment to their own students, and the university sometimes has temporary programs during peak demand times.
If you need a laptop for an extended period and rentals won't work, look into whether Temple offers any emergency laptop lending programs or whether your department has funding to help you purchase or borrow one. Some scholarships and financial aid packages include technology stipends you can use toward a computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a full-time student to rent a laptop?
No. Temple's program is open to all current students, including part-time students, as long as you have a valid Temple ID. Faculty and staff can also rent laptops. If your ID has expired or you're unsure about your status, contact the library directly.
Can I reserve a laptop in advance?
Some Temple library branches allow reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the library location you plan to visit and ask whether you can hold a laptop for a specific date and time. If reservations are available, they usually require you to pick up the equipment within a set window or the hold is released.
What if I need the laptop past the return deadline?
Contact the library before the deadline and ask whether you can extend the rental. If another student hasn't reserved the laptop, the library may allow an extension. If you miss the deadline, return the laptop as soon as possible to minimize late fees.
Are there any fees to rent a laptop?
Most Temple library laptop rentals are free for students, faculty, and staff. However, late return fees or damage charges may apply. Ask about the fee structure when you pick up the equipment so you understand what you're responsible for.
What operating system do the laptops run?
Temple's rental inventory typically includes both Windows and Mac laptops, though availability of each type varies. When you call ahead or visit the library, ask what systems are currently in stock so you can plan for software compatibility with your coursework.