What are solar panel chargers?

They are a portable, foldable, and weatherproof devices that harness the power of the sun to charge your smartphone, tablet, or other small device. Each 25 watt solar panel contains one USB-C port and one USB-A port to charge two devices at the same time. They can be used for outdoor activities and during power outages or emergencies.

Mendocino County Library cardholders must meet the following conditions to checkout a solar panel charger kit:

• Borrowers must have Mendocino general (mg) cards in good standing “owing $20.00 or less.”
• Borrowers must be adults – 18 years old or older.

Solar Panel Charger Kits:

• Are available at all branches on a first-come, first-serve availability basis.
• One charger can be checked out for 21 days at a time.
• Patron will be charged for any damage or loss of charger kits.
• Charger kits must be picked up and returned directly to staff at the branch where checked out; they may not be placed in the book drop.
• Are not requestable, and cannot be put on hold.
• Are renewable, and there is no waiting period to checkout again.

Each solar panel charger kit contains:

• 1 Solar Panel Charger
• 2 Carabiners (hooks used to hang the charger if needed)
• Quickstart guide
• User manual
• 1 box

Solar Panel Chargers were provided by the California State Library EmPOWERing Access project.

How do I get started?

Call or go into your local branch - solar panel charger kits are available at all branches on a first-come, first-serve availability basis.

How to use:

1. Unzip the mesh cover and locate the Panel's junction box.
2. Plug your device into the appropriate output port (USB-C or USB-A) using your device's charging cable (not included in kit).
3. Unfold the solar panel charger and place the panel in direct sunlight for at least 5 seconds.
4. The red LED light will illuminate when solar energy is available to charge your device.
5. Your device will begin charging. The charging signal will be shown on your device, indicating it is receiving a charge.
6. Please note: While the panel can directly charge your device, it does not itself store solar power for later use. We recommend using a separate power bank to store the solar power for convenient charging of your devices.
7. Please refer to the user manual in the kit for detailed instructions.