Digital and information

Using a library computer

Library members can use the internet free of charge for up to two hours a day and can have one 15 minute drop-in session. All the computers shut down 15 minutes before the library closes.

Haven't got a Library card? Find out how to join.

Most computers have desktop publishing, word processing, scanning and printing facilities. People's Network PCs provide internet and email access as well as access to Microsoft Office programs.

Everyone needs to be covered by a TV Licence to download or watch BBC programmes on demand, including catch-up TV on BBC iPlayer. This could be on any device including TVs, desktop computers, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, games consoles and digital boxes. Coventry Libraries do not have a TV Licence, therefore users will be unable to access BBC iPlayer through public computers and other devices when connecting through the Libraries wi-fi.

Under 16s computer use

A parental consent form must be completed for anyone under 16 to register to use the library computers. Once this is done under 16s just need to show their library card to book a computer to use. Complete the online form to allow use of library computers for under 16s.

Remember: Be safe online.

Booking your session

You can book two free hours a day in only one library. Extra time on the computers can be booked for a small fee with concessions for children. Booking extra time on computers can only be done in person in the library, is subject to availability and must be paid for in advance at the time of booking.

You can also ring your local library to book a session or book when you come into the library on a first come-first serve basis.

Before you book online, check these bank holiday opening times and dates.

How to book

You can book your free daily computer session online, up to one week in advance.

To do this you need to have your library card number, which you will find under the barcode and your PIN or you can call in or telephone your local library to check availability.

If you do not have a PIN, staff at your local library will give you one in person, over the phone or by e-mail.

Remember:

• your PIN is for your security. Please do not tell it to anyone else, as they will be able to get access to your library details
• you can book for the next day at the end of your visit.

Wi-Fi

All Coventry Libraries have free unlimited Wi-Fi access.

Computer and internet access

Library members can use the internet free of charge for up to two hours a day and can have one 15 minute drop-in session. Scanning, printing, photocopying and faxing facilities are also available. There are no charges for these services for those with a registered visual impairment.

Hublets

Hublets are available at Central, Foleshill and Tile Hill Libraries.

A Hublet is a tablet computer that can be loaned using your library card and used for up to two hours for free anywhere within the library space.

It connects to the Wi-Fi and gives users access to:

• BBC News
• BBC Weather
• CBeebies
• Google Arts & Culture
• Google Earth
• Google Translate
• Ask NHS
• BBC Bitesize
• Coventry Live
• Duolingo
• Facebook
• Goodreads
• Instagram
• Libby
• NASA
• Pressreader
• TED Talks
• Trainline
• TfWM
• Twitter
• Wikipedia

To loan a Hublet simply scan the barcode of your library card under the barcode reader on the Hublet docking station and a Hublet will be made available to use. Once finished, fit the Hublet back into the docking station to register the return and allow it to recharge.

Eduzone

Central Library is now a Eduzone - University and Further Education students and staff can safely access their educational resources from this Library. Read about how to access the Eduzone and how safe your access is.

Printing

Did you know that you are allowed up to three free computer print-outs per day if they are for helping with your homework? Up to two of these can be colour. Also, if we do not have a book for you to borrow, you are allowed to make up to three black and white photocopies from encyclopaedias, our homework collection stock or other reference stock. Extra computer time, printing and photocopies are available for a small charge.

Saving information

You can save to the hard drive temporarily or use a USB.

Library computers reboot after each use and files saved on the hard drive are deleted. You can save files temporarily onto the hard drive while you are using the computer but files must be saved to a removable device before your time runs out so the file is not deleted.

Library staff cannot recover a file once your computer session has ended.

Virus checking

All the computers have anti-virus software which is regularly updated. All USBs will be virus checked before use.

Aid for visually impaired

Software and equipment designed to assist users with a visual impairment when using a public computer can be found at:

• Central Library
• Allesley Park Library

Please contact the libraries for more information.