worrying about having a laptop stolen is a moot issue. if you're that careless with something that expensive than you shouldnt have one in the first place. that's like saying if you leave youre car running while you run into the store real quick it might get stolen.
the library is an excellent example. ive also used mine in the car. i typed a paper in the car on a 3 hour drive home. i take it anywhere around the house, and outside, thanks to wireless and use it everyday while relaxing in bed. ive had my Compaq laptop for two years now and it still does everything I need it to. my classes typically have about 40-50 people in them with about 1/2 using laptops. everyone is always typing notes feverishly on them and i have never seen anyone bring one for it just to sit there. but then again, no one there is a freshman or sophmore and is serious about their education.
after owning both laptops and desktops i would never again buy another desktop. one other great thing i love about having a laptop is that whenever i do have an issue with it i can close it and take it to my buddy who is a computer geek, as opposed to a desktop in which i have to disconnect everything to take it or wait for him to find time to come over to look at it.
imagine having a car you can't take to your mechanic but have to wait for your mechanic to come to you. unless of course, you are your own "mechanic" (read-computer geek), but it doesnt sound like you are.
