Computers in our libraries

access to the Internet and to web-based email
MS Office software: Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Paint.
Please note, we do not yet have the Office 2007 software, so documents in the .docx format cannot be viewed or amended
scanning, printing and downloading.
saving to CD (floppy disk drives are not available)
adapted PC's to assist people with disabilities - at least 1 in each library
colour printing - charges apply

Anyone with a library borrower card or People's Network card has fast-track access to the computers, using their card number and PIN to log on. If you do not have a card ask library staff, at some libraries you will be given a guest number for one-off use of the computers.

If you are aged 9 to 15 you can use the People’s Network PCs if your parent or guardian has filled in a form giving you permission to do so.

Children aged 8 or under are welcome but can only use a People’s Network PC when a parent or carer aged over 16 is using it with them.

Booking

Busy libraries operate a booking system for anyone with a library card or People's Network card. We advise you to book ahead but if there is a computer available you can use it immediately, without booking.You can book on the library computers, or ask a member of staff. You will need your library card number to book.
Library members can book one session, of up to 60 minutes, up to 7 days in advance, ahead.
If you are late for your booked session your computer will remain available for 10 minutes - after that the session will be available to other customers
We ask you to let us know if you will be unable to use a booked session.
Some libraries have 'Immediate Use' computers, which cannot be booked. Sessions on these computers are up to 30 minutes.
Some large libraries have a queuing system to allocate the next available computer to people who are waiting.
To give as many people as possible the chance to use the People's Network, you may use the PCs in a library for up to two hours each day, subject to availability. Further sessions may be available during the day, at the discretion of library staff.
Some libraries have PCs which are designated as 'Priority for Children'. These PCs will not be available for adult use after 3pm, at weekends, during school holidays or when there is a children’s activity in the library.

Internet Access

Access to the Internet is filtered to block access to offensive sites, although this cannot guarantee the complete exclusion of undesirable material. Different levels of filtering are automatically applied according to the age group of the user, which is identified when you log on.

For users aged 16 and over a low level of filtering is applied, the same level that is applied to Hampshire County Council staff. This includes access to chat rooms which do not require special software. Please bear this in mind if you are a parent or carer using the Internet with a child.
For children and young people aged over 8 but under 16 the Hampshire Schools level of filtering is applied. This includes access to moderated chat rooms which do not require special software.

Help

Where possible library staff will attempt to help you use the computers. This is at the discretion of library staff and depends on the resources and staff available.

Many libraries run drop-in sessions for beginners,subject specific workshops and classes for visually impaired people. Please check What's On for details