đ Purpose
- This article explains the TSC Loaner Laptop Program â who qualifies, how long devices can be borrowed, and what is expected upon return.
- It also provides information on the Mercy Resource Fund for students with verified financial need.
đĨ Audience
đĨī¸ Applies To
- Student Loaner Laptops (Short-Term and Long-Term)
âšī¸ About the Loaner Pool
The TSC loaner program exists to help students through specific, temporary technology gaps â whether a personal device is in for repair or a financial hardship makes access difficult. We want to make sure every student who genuinely needs a loaner can get one. Because our inventory is limited, we ask that all requests go through the eligibility process below so we can serve those needs fairly.
If you're unsure whether your situation qualifies, stop by the TSC desk â we're happy to talk it through with you.
đĨī¸ On-Campus Computing Resources
Before requesting a loaner, it's worth knowing that the Library has a large bank of computers available for student use, many of which include specialized software that may meet your needs. This is a great first option if you need access to a specific application or just need a place to work.
Click here to learn more about Library computing resources.
đ§ Where to Get Your Device Serviced
If your device needs repair, we recommend the following service providers:
| Provider |
Best For |
Website |
| Newport County Computers |
Windows, Mac and general laptop repair |
nccri.net |
| Apple Support |
MacBooks and Apple devices |
support.apple.com |
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Who Qualifies?
There are two qualifying scenarios, each with different loan terms.
| Qualifying Reason |
Loan Type |
Duration |
| Personal device currently in for repair |
Short-Term |
Up to 7 days |
| Verified financial need (Mercy Resource Fund approval required) |
Long-Term |
Based on approval |
đ A note on eligibility:
We want to be transparent about what the loaner program is designed for, so you can plan accordingly. The following situations fall outside the program's scope:
- A device that is slow or aging â loaners are not issued for performance concerns.
- A forgotten laptop â the loaner pool is reserved for situations where a device is genuinely unavailable, not temporarily left behind.
- Not having a personal device â all students are expected to have one. If cost is a barrier, the Mercy Resource Fund (below) is the right starting point.
- Faculty-initiated requests â these require a supervisor review at the TSC before any loaner can be issued.
If you're unsure where your situation fits, please come talk to us â we'll help you figure out the best path forward.
đ ī¸ How to Request a Loaner
- Visit the TSC desk and explain your situation. Staff will work through the eligibility criteria with you.
- If your device is in for repair, please bring the repair ticket or confirmation.
- If you have a software or class requirement, bring documentation (e.g., course name, professor name, or the specific software needed).
- If financial hardship is a factor, you'll need to apply through the Mercy Resource Fund before a long-term loaner can be issued â see below for details.
- If approved, staff will log the loan, issue the device, and confirm your return date. Please make note of that date â overdue devices may result in a hold on your student account.
đ
Return Expectations
- Short-term loaners are due back within 7 days, or by the agreed return date.
- If your repair takes longer than expected, please contact the TSC before your due date â extensions are considered on a case-by-case basis and are not automatic.
- If your personal device comes back sooner than expected, please return the loaner promptly so it's available for other students.
- Devices not returned by the due date may result in a hold placed on your student account through the Business Office.
đ° Mercy Resource Fund
The Mercy Resource Fund reflects our commitment to making sure financial hardship doesn't stand between a student and their education. If you're facing a technology barrier that affects your coursework, this program may be able to help.
| Who it's for |
Students with verified financial need who cannot afford a personal device or cover essential technology costs required for their coursework. |
| Application |
Click here to apply for the Mercy Resource Fund |
| After approval |
TSC will issue a long-term loaner based on inventory availability. |
đ Note for Business Program Students:
Business students are required to have a Windows-based laptop capable of running Microsoft Office 365. This is a program requirement, and unfortunately the loaner pool isn't set up to serve as a long-term substitute for a required device. That said, if cost is a factor, the Mercy Resource Fund is a great place to start â use the application link above.
đĄ Troubleshooting & Tips
- Device not returned by due date: TSC will reach out to you. If we're unable to make contact, a hold may be placed on your account through the Business Office.
- Short-term loan extending past 7 days: Contact the TSC before your due date â we'd rather hear from you early than have to follow up.
- You need access to specific software right away: The Library has a large bank of computers with specialized software available for student use. Learn more about Library computing resources here.
- You have a Chromebook or iPad: These may not support all required applications. Let TSC staff know what software you need so we can help assess your options.
- You need a loaner for a faculty-initiated reason: TSC staff will need to review with a supervisor first. Please allow extra time and plan ahead when possible.
- You're unsure if you qualify: Come talk to us. We'll walk through the criteria with you and point you in the right direction â even if a loaner isn't the right fit.