• About the Program
• Laptop Specifications
• How to Apply
• Other Ways to Borrow Tech in the Libraries
• Current Drawing Info
• FAQs

UAB Libraries’ Long-term Laptop Loan Program is a pilot designed to support student success by eliminating financial barriers and providing access to essential resources. The program provides loaner laptops to students in need based on a lottery system that will be implemented in fall 2025 and spring 2026.  UAB Libraries works in collaboration with Information Technology to make a limited number of laptop computers available for semester loan to students. 

The Student Laptop Loan program is based at Sterne Library and is open to all UAB students enrolled in at least 6 credit hours.

Laptop Specifications

These devices were purchased as part of the CARES program in 2020 to meet the needs of students during the COVID pandemic. The specifications for these devices are as follows:

• Model: Dell Latitude 5510
• CPU: Intel Core i5‑10210U (10th Gen)
• RAM: 8 GB DDR4 (2667 MHz)
• Screen: 15.6″ Full HD (1920×1080), anti-glare
• Storage: 256 GB
• OS: Windows 11
• Ports:
  • 1× USB‑C with DisplayPort & Power Delivery
  • 2× USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-A
  • 1× HDMI 1.4
  • 1× RJ-45 Ethernet
  • 1× Headset jack
  • 1× MicroSD card reader
    
    

How to Apply for a Semester-long Laptop

On Dec. 8, 2025, UAB Libraries will post an online application where students can apply for access to one of these devices. After the application period closes, a lottery will be held, and fifty (50) students will be selected to receive a laptop for use for the semester.

The students who are selected for a laptop loan will be required to attend an orientation session at Sterne Library. At this time, selected students will receive an overview on using the device and the loan parameters, then sign a statement of financial responsibility and take a pre-use survey. Those who are selected to receive a laptop will be asked to attend an orientation session 3 p.m. Feb. 4 or 10 a.m. Feb. 5. Students will be given their laptops at the conclusion of orientation. Laptop pickups will only be available through one of these two orientation sessions.

Other Ways to Borrow Technology in the Libraries

Loaned laptops are provided for short-term needs as well in both Libraries:

• Laptop kiosks—4-hour loans of both Dells and MacBooks
• Week-long laptop loans—Dell computers
• iPads
• Alienware

For more information on technology items that can be borrowed from the UAB Libraries please visit our technology collections page.

Current Drawing Information:

Entries for the spring semester-long laptop drawing (2025-2026 academic year) will be accepted beginning Dec. 8, 2025 at 12:00 a.m. and ending Jan. 23, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Note: only one entry will be accepted for each student. Please complete the application online.

FAQs

1. How will I know if I was approved for a laptop loan this year?
   Students who are selected via the random drawing to receive a semester-long laptop loan will be notified by email by Jan. 28, 2026.
   
   
2. Where will I get the laptop once I have been approved?
   Laptop pick-up is only available during one of the two orientation sessions held at the Sterne Library. Recipients will receive details for the orientation sessions in their welcome email.
   
   
3. What is the cost for borrowing the device for a semester?
   There is no cost associated with the loan of the semester-long laptops. As a UAB student, you receive all UAB Libraries services at no cost.
   
   
4. What kind of laptop will I get?
   Model: Dell Latitude 5510
   CPU: Intel Core i5‑10210U (10th Gen)
   RAM: 8 GB DDR4 (2667 MHz)
   Screen: 15.6″ Full HD (1920×1080), anti-glare
   Storage: 256 GB
   OS: Windows 11
   
   Ports:
   1× USB‑C with DisplayPort & Power Delivery
   2× USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-A
   1× HDMI 1.4
   1× RJ-45 Ethernet
   1× Headset jack
   1× MicroSD card reader
   
   
5. Am I able to download programs/software onto the device?
   Yes, you will be able to download programs needed for your coursework on the laptop as long as the device meets the specifications of the laptop, listed above.
   
   
6. When will I have to return the laptop?
   Laptops are due back to the Sterne Library no later than Friday, May 1, 2026, by 4 pm.
   
   
7. What if my laptop is lost or stolen or damaged?
   If your laptop is lost or stolen, please report the incident as soon as possible to UAB Libraries. Prompt reporting helps us take appropriate next steps, including filing a police report with the UAB Police Department when appropriate. Depending on the circumstances, you may be held responsible for the replacement cost of the laptop, $400.
   
   If the laptop is damaged, email UAB Libraries as soon as possible. Depending on the type and cause of the damage, you may be eligible for a replacement. In some cases, repair or replacement costs may be your responsibility, and ongoing eligibility for the long-term loan program may be affected.
   
   UAB Libraries understands that regular wear and tear is expected and will not penalize you for small or cosmetic issues that do not affect the laptop’s performance.
   
   Lost or damaged accessories (such as power adapters) may result in additional charges.