Accessing the Internet
Access to the internet is available at the Library via our computers and network. You don't need to register as a Library user, book or pay to use them; simply find a free computer and get started.
For information about WiFi access using your laptop or PDA, see Internet access.
Please note: all computers must be used in accordance with the Library's Information & Communication Technology Security Policy.
Where and how to use the internet
Most computers located throughout the Library are networked and provide users with full access to the web, including web-based applications such as Yahoomail, Hotmail, etc. A small number of stand-alone, non-networked computers are the exception, providing access to particular web-based databases and the Library catalogues, not general web access.
There are two rooms in the Library with internet PCs:
Find a PC that is not in use and check to see if it has one of the following signs attached:
- 15-minute PC: You can use the internet for up to 15 minutes on these PCs
- 60-minute PC: You can use the internet for up to 60 minutes (one hour) on these PCs
- Catalogues & Databases: General internet access is not available from these PCs; you can only use them to search the Library’s catalogues or find articles in databases.
If all PCs are in use, there is a place in each room where you can queue to wait your turn.
Observing time limits
To give other users a fair go, you must limit your use to the time designated on the sign. Staff have the right to ask you to move on.
Keeping your session private
When you have finished, use the ‘Restart PC’ icon on the desktop to restart the PC. This will clear the browser’s history, cache, passwords, downloaded files and any other information from your internet session.
Word processing
Word processing is not available on Library PCs. There are viewers which allow you to open and print Word, Excel and Powerpoint documents, but you cannot make changes. For online word-processing software, try Google Documents [external link]. All Library PCs provide Notepad for creating and editing non-formatted text documents.
Opening files on your USB (memory stick)
Plug in your USB and open an internet browser (Internet Explorer or Firefox). In the address window, type ‘e:’ to browse the files stored on your USB. Click on the file you want to open.
Printing
To print from Library computers, you need a copy card or a Library card. For more information, see Self-Service Copying: Using Library Equipment.
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