Technology

Library card holders in good standing (no outstanding fines or fees) have access to the following computer services:

 

ADULTS

• 15 Adult Internet Computers (located on the second floor).  Each comes with Microsft Word; Winway Resume; Internet Explorer;  and Mozilla Firefox
  
• 4 Adult Internet Computers (located at the Bellevue Avenue Branch) Each comes with Microsft Word; Winway Resume; Internet Explorer; and Mozilla Firefox;
• 3 Database and or Research Computers (located on the second floor) Mozilla Firefox
• 5 Microsoft Office ONLY PC's in our Computer Lab (located on the first floor) Each has Word; Excel; Access; Powerpoint; and Publisher installed.  We have a limited selection of clipart available for Publisher and Powerpoint.
  

CHILDREN (up to age 12)

• 6 Children's Internet Computers (located on the third floor)
• 8 Games and Program Computers (located on the third floor)
• 5 Games and Program Computers (located at the Bellevue Avenue Branch)
• 1 Internet Childrens Computer (located at the Bellevue Avenue Branch)

YOUNG ADULTS

• 6 Young Adult Internet Computers (located on the first floor) limited to 12 - 17 yr olds only.
  
• Database Research Computer (located on the first floor)

 

We have both black & white as well as a color printer.  Black & White printouts are .15/each and color printouts are .50/each.  Patrons are not allowed to bring in their own print media.

 

NO ACCESS TO THE INTERNET IS ALLOWED IN THE LAB.   Patrons must be in the library to sign up for computers in the Lab.  Valid MPL library cards are required for use of these computers, and patrons may sign up at a Reservation station on either the First or Second Floor.

You may download files to floppy disks or flash drives but you are not allowed to download files to the hard drive.  Please be advised that they may use these devices at their own risk.   While the machine may have a USB port, it is not necessarily of the high-speed variety preferred by most flash drives.

 

Wireless Access at The Main Library and our Bellevue Avenue Branch

Here are answers to some questions you might have about using wireless in the library.

 

Q. How can I use wireless Internet at the Library?

A. Wireless access uses the WiFi standard (also known as IEEE 802.11b). Most users can simply bring their wireless enabled laptop computer or other wireless device to the library and turn it on. The computer will automatically recognize the wireless network. If your laptop does not have wireless built-in, you can install a WiFi-compatible network card. The Library cannot guarantee your equipment will work with the Library's network.

 

Q. How does it work?

A. Wireless access points located throughout the library communicate with your wireless device. You should be able to connect almost anywhere in the building. When your wireless network card senses a signal, a message appears on your screen indicating a wireless network is available.

 

Q. Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?

A. In many instances wireless devices will automatically detect the library's wireless network and configure themselves to use the system. If you device does not connect right away please try the following: make sure your wireless network adapter has been properly installed according to the manufacturers instructions; use the management software that came with your wireless device to confirm that your configuration settings match the values shown below.

NETWORK NAME or (SSID): any

NETWORK MODE: Infrastructure

WEP: Disabled IP or NETWORK SETTINGS: DHCP enabled or obtain an IP address automatically

DNS: Obtain DNS address automatically

If you are using Windows XP SP2 you must disconnect your firewall.

 

Q. Can the library help me configure my computer?

A. We apologize, everyone's computer is different and you ar responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. The library cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings. If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the hardware or software manufacturer.

 

Q. Is my information safe while using wireless?

A. Your information is not protected while using wireless, unless you are connected to a web page that employs encryption (stores, banks, etc). Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive business or personal information. We recommend you use up to date virus software, a personal firewall and turn off file and printer sharing. These steps are the responsibility of the user.

 

Q. Can I print while using wireless?

A. Printing is not available. If you need to print, please save your work to disk or email files to yourself, then login to a library workstation and send print job(s) to a printer.

 

Q. Is there wireless access at the Bellevue Avenue Branch?

A. Yes. There is wireless access at the Branch.