Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Chromebooks

Mobile Data Ending June 30, 2024

We hope those who received an internet-connected Chromebook last year through the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) provided by St. Louis County Library has been helpful to you. The mobile data (Wi-Fi), which was provided by T-Mobile through the ECF, will be ending on June 30, 2024. Even after the mobile data ends on June 30, 2024, the Chromebook can still be very useful when used in areas with Wi-Fi access or if you are able to secure internet access on your own.

Please do not return the Chromebook to the Library. You get to keep the device to use indefinitely. 

St. Louis County Library has received funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) to provide 1,000 internet connected Chromebooks to eligible residents. The devices come preloaded with unlimited data through June 30, 2024. 

The Chromebooks do not need to be returned to the Library. Recipients can keep the device to use indefinitely, however internet access will end on June 30, 2024.

 

Program Information

  • The Chromebooks will come with a free mobile internet connection through June 30, 2024.
  • The internet content is filtered to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
  • St. Louis County Library cannot replace lost or damaged devices or chargers.
Open Chromebook on a green gradient background

 

 

Helpful Information About the Device
 

How long will the mobile data on my ECF Chromebook last?

Mobile data (Wi-Fi), which is provided by T-Mobile, will end on June 30, 2024. 

Don’t forget, when visiting any library location you are able to connect your ECF Chromebook to the free Wi-Fi. 

 

When do I have to return my ECF Chromebook?

Your ECF Chromebook does not need to be returned.  Even after the mobile data ends on June 30, 2024, the Chromebook can still be very useful when used in areas with Wi-Fi access or if you are able to secure internet access on your own. 

 

My Chromebook or charging cable was lost, stolen or broken. Can I get a replacement?

We do not have any Chromebooks or charging cables to replace lost, stolen or broken ones. You will not be charged for lost, stolen, or damaged devices.

Please report any lost, stolen, or damaged devices to us by emailing chromebooks@slcl.org or calling 314-994-3300 through June 30, 2024. 

 

Can I use my Chromebook to watch Netflix, Hulu or other streaming services?

No. ECF Chromebooks are provided with funding from the federal government and contain Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) Content Filtering. CIPA Filtering prohibits the viewing and use of several streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Amazon Video, and others. The web filter is managed by a third party that has determined the site is not suitable for minors.

Beginning July 1, CIPA restrictions will be removed from all devices.

 

Can you remove the CIPA filtering on the Chromebook once I get it? 

No, we do not have the ability to remove restrictions or CIPA filtering from the devices.  CIPA filtering will end after June 30, 2024. Beginning July 1, CIPA restrictions will be removed from all devices.

 

Who do I contact with questions about using my ECF Chromebook?

For Wi-Fi and mobile data issues, call the T-Mobile support line at 1-844-341-4834 through June 30, 2024.

For Chromebook-related issues, visit Chromebook Technical Support Online  for technical support.

Our staff members can assist users with basic computing and common software questions. We recommend looking into our one-on-one Book a Trainer service. Please understand, the library cannot provide in-depth troubleshooting or technical support.