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Computers and Internet in libraries

Where you can use computers

Every library has computers that you can use free of charge. These computers shut down 15 minutes before the library closes.

To use our computers please bring your library card or proof of identity. If a computer is available, you can sign in with your library card number and PIN and get up to an hour straight away. You’ll be asked to agree to our acceptable use policies.

All of our libraries offer free wifi if you want to use your own device.

Children’s computers

There are computers in the children’s areas of libraries. A parental consent form, available from staff at the counter, must be signed before children can use them. Website content is filtered but this doesn’t always block unsuitable material.

  • Children aged 8 to 15 can use the computers on their own but parents and guardians are responsible for what they do on the Internet.
  • Children under 8 years old must have an adult with them when they use our computers.

Things you can do on library computers

  • Free Internet and web-based email.
  • Free access to subscription websites like Ancestry, Find My Past, Theory Test Pro and Encyclopaedia Britannica.
  • Software for word processing, spreadsheets, creating presentations, newsletters and editing photos.
  • Save files temporarily to the My Documents folder on the computer. They are automatically deleted at the end of your session to protect your privacy.
  • Open or save files on USB memory sticks.
  • Memory card reader for digital cameras, so you can edit, email or print photos. Printing is on standard photocopy paper only.
  • Each library has a scanner. You can use this to scan images or documents and convert existing documents to save/edit in MS Word.
  • Microsoft on screen keyboard and screen magnifier and access to mouse settings.

Free wifi in libraries

Free WiFi is available in all of our libraries.

You can use your own device to access this service. Log in using your library card and PIN, except in Uckfield where you simply sign up for the service.

If you are not a library member bring some proof of ID so you can join the library.

Our WiFi uses the library network. To make sure that all customers can access the service we do have some restrictions in place

  • Full day sessions for up to 2 devices per customer.
  • Use is limited to 2 GB uploads and downloads per day.

Getting help using computers

IT for You 

Free support on everyday computer skills at your local library.

Learn to use email and the internet, stay safe online, search and apply for work, complete online forms, shop online, update Universal Credit accounts, download and use apps including the NHS app, keep in touch with friends and family online, discover Microsoft Office and more – all with the help of your very own volunteer!

You choose the skills you learn, there are no tests and no exams, and you can attend as many or as few sessions as you need.

Use our desktop computers or bring your own laptop or tablet.

Available now at Battle, Bexhill, Crowborough, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Hampden Park, Hastings, Heathfield, Lewes, Newhaven, Peacehaven, Rye, Seaford and Uckfield Libraries.

Call 0345 60 80 196 to find out more or book your place. Or see further information here.


Book a library computer

You must be a member of East Sussex Libraries to book a library computer.

How to book

The easiest way to book a library computer is online.

Other ways you can book

We recommend booking a computer in advance. Please let us know if you want to use a scanner when you book.

  • By phone – book sessions of up to one hour by phoning 0345 6080196.
  • Self-service – if you’re already using a library computer, you may extend your session depending on how busy the computers are that day, or book up to 5 sessions in advance.

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