On other websites…

• BBC Webwise

Using computers and the Internet in libraries

Anyone can use a computer at our libraries free of charge.

You will need to bring proof of your identity or your library membership card, and agree to our acceptable use policies for library computers.

Computers for beginners

If you are new to computers, learn more about how to use them:

• getting started with computers – using email, searching and using the Internet safely and computer courses
• Learndirect – take a course at any of our libraries.

Do I have to book?

No, but we recommend you book ahead. You can book a library computer for sessions of up to one hour, or turn up to see if a computer is available. Please let us know if you want to use a scanner when you book.

Once you are using a computer, you may extend your session depending on how busy the computers are that day.

Can my child use a computer in the library?

Yes. We have computers in the children’s areas of libraries for children.

• Children aged 8–15 can use the computers unsupervised but parents and guardians are responsible for their activities while using the Internet. A parental consent form must be completed.
• Children under 8 years old must be supervised at all times by parent or guardian.

Please note that content is filtered for children but this is not always effective in blocking unsuitable material.

What can I do on the computers?

As well as word processing and spreadsheets, you can use email and search the Internet and databases on our computers. Library members can also access some of our subscription services from home.

• Internet, email and useful websites – search engines, free email and websites listed by subject
• Subscription databases – Ancestry, Britannica, Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, Newsbank and Times Digital Archive and more

Our library computers also offer the following facilities:

• using USB memory sticks and floppy discs
• plugging in some types of digital camera to download, email or print photos
• one scanner in each library to scan images and documents
• saving your files temporarily to the My Documents folder on the computer. Please remember to delete your files at the end of your session to protect your privacy.
• accessibility software to magnify text and read information on screen aloud.

Become a computer buddy

If you're good at using computers and have some spare time, you could help other people use them too – find out how to become a computer buddy:

• Volunteering in libraries