Drexel University introduces iPad vending machine

Two years ago, Drexel University introduced to its campus a vending machine that dispensed MacBooks for 24-hour student use. 

Now, the university has done it again by creating a kiosk that dispenses 12 iPads to residents of Philadelphia’s Mantua and Powelton neighborhoods which border Drexel University’s campus.

Image via Drexel University.

Residents will be able to use their Free Library of Philadelphia card to sign out an iPad and use it for a maximum of four hours. Students can also check out the iPads with a swipe of their student ID card.

There’s no threat of personal information being stored either— data is wiped off the iPad once returned to the slot.

“We see this partnership as building upon the success of the Free Library of Philadelphia Hot Spots and Neighborhood Library Computer Labs that bring computer access, classes and the Internet to neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia. The apps downloaded on the iPads have been specifically chosen to support the digital literacy needs for children, teens and adults,” said Siobhan A. Reardon, president of the Free Library of Philadelphia.

The Librarians at both the Free Library and Drexel selected the apps that are installed on the iPads which include a variety such as art, digital storytelling, games, music, news, photo editing, science and astronomy.

Since the laptop program was so successful, the university librarians wanted to introduce even more self-service technology to its campus. They are currently exploring even more opportunities to share technology by using vending machines.

Story via Drexel University.