Library officials' main worry about the program is security, said Jeffrey A Bernhard, Widener Library's manager of operations and information technology services.
To prevent theft, each laptop is painted crimson and is emblazoned with the Harvard University emblem. The laptops are also fitted with a device that will activate the building alarm if anyone attempts to remove them from the library.
Library officials are also worried about the durability of the laptops, Bernhard said But given that they are some of the sturdiest on the market--they weigh over six pounds--Bernhard is optimistic that they will survive the wear and tear they will likely encounter.