Please be aware that all computers in our libraries automatically shutdown 10 minutes before closing time, we are unable to make exceptions to these timings. We advise all users to give themselves at least 7 minutes to allow logging on and time to get any information or printing done.
Free internet access for concessionary users
Library members registered as concessionary users can enjoy internet access free of charge for up to one hour per day. Further access in excess of 1 hour costs 60p for 20 minutes
General details about the equipment available to use in libraries and how to book these facilities are available below.
Changes to computer & internet access... you can access many information websites free of charge at your local library. If you want to use the computers to access your email, software packages or entertainment sites, you now need to pay to use these services. Find out more about our computer & internet service.
What do we have for you?
What kind of equipment is available in libraries?
Can I bring in my own equipment to use in the library?
Can anyone use the computers & other IT facilities?
Do I need to book first?
What software packages are available?
Can I access the internet and / or check my emails?
What happens if a site I need to access is blocked? (see the IT Policy section)
What library services can I access online?
What special sites can I use by being a library member?
Am I entitled to a concession rate?
What kind of equipment is available in libraries?
- All libraries provide public computers for adults & children to use.
- All the PC's have CD / DVD writers and run on Windows XP.
- All libraries have scanning facilities
- In Bath Central lIbrary we also have a Quiet PC (Need to book PC at the staff counter)
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Can I bring in my own equipment to use in the library?
- Although we welcome users with laptops in any of our desked areas, you are not able to plug into the sockets within the library. The library buildings mains circuit is not set up for this yet, so any customers plugging in any type of equipment to the library's mains electric will be breaching library procedures.
Please note that Libraries within Bath & North East Somerset do not currently have WiFi capabilities - however both library members and visitors can gain access to the Internet on the public computers as advised.
On occasions you may see exhibitors in the Bath Library exhibition space with their own equipment plugged in, however this is in accordance with the bookings procedure and only done with prior agreement of the Library Managers.
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Can anyone use the computers & other IT facilities?
- Yes but you need to join the library first. Becoming a member is free and it's very easy to join - find out how here.
- If you are only visiting Bath for a short time, then we can provide you with a non members cards that will allow you to access the internet. You will need to pay at the counter when you collect your card.
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Do I need to book first?
- Yes you will need to book first. All library members can have a maximum of 8 hours per day. You can book a session in advance (up to a maximum of 2 days before you need it).
You can also use the computers in any LibrariesWest authority now with your existing membership card - more details here...
How to book a session:
- Use the self-booking system. You can do this from the Free Access area before you log onto the computer. (Please note: if you want to book a session in another LibrariesWest authority you will need to be logged onto a computer in that authority at the time.)
- Ask a member of staff to do this for you at any library or over the phone.
- In Bath Library only we have PN kiosks for booking and these should be used instead of queuing at the counter
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What software packages are available?
- All computers have access to the standard Microsoft Office packages including Word, Excel, PowerPoint & Access.
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Can I access the internet and /or check my emails?
Internet access is available on all the PC's. However certain sites will be restricted due to their content. When children log on they will also receive restricted access. - Email accounts can be accessed as normal from all PC's. You may need to set up a web based e-mail account such as Hotmail to do this first.
- For more information, please see the Internet Use Policy.
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What library services can I access online?
- You can search the whole library catalogue, and reserve & renew items with our 24 hour services.
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What special sites can I use by being a library member?
- Library members get access to many subscription electronic resources for free. You can even access most of them from home - more details here.
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