Wireless Access Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the library offer a wireless connection to patrons with laptops?

   Yes. The library offers wireless network access (hotspots) throughout the building to patrons with wireless capable devices, such as wireless capable laptop and handheld computers. You must provide your own device configured for wireless access.
    

2. What do I need to connect to a wireless hotspot in the library?

   You need a laptop or handheld computer that is configured to conform to standard 802.11b, commonly known as Wi-Fi. New laptops may come already configured for wireless.
    

3. Is it difficult to connect to a wireless hotspot?

   Not usually. Most laptops that come configured for wireless access can automatically pick up the wireless signal. You may have to know how to use your wireless device's configuration software to connect to the wireless network.
    

4. Is technical support available from the library staff?

   No. Technical support from the library staff is not available. You must be familiar with your device and know how to set it up for wireless access.
    

5. When can I use the wireless access?

   Wireless access is available to patrons during library business hours.
    

6. Is there a charge for using the wireless access?

   There is no charge for using the library's wireless access with your wireless capable device.
    

7. Can I connect to the printers and other software via the wireless network?

   At this time, printing services and other software are not available via the wireless connection. If you need to print, you will need to save data on your computer to print from home or work, or copy the data to a floppy disk and print from the disk through one of our cabled computers during business hours. Black & white printing is $ 0 .10 per page, and color printing is $ 1.00 per page.

Please be advised that:

• Due to insurance limitations and warranties, library staff is not allowed to configure patrons' laptop or handheld computers or install any devices or software on those computers.
• Virus, security, and privacy protection is the responsibility of the patron.
• The library assumes no responsibility for any alterations or interference with a laptop's configuration, operation, or data files resulting from connection to the library's wireless network.
• The library assumes no responsibility for damage, theft, or loss of any kind to a user's equipment, software, data files or other personal property brought into or used at the library's facilities.
• The library cannot guarantee that the service will be available at any specific time or the connection will have any specific quality or speed.
• The library cannot accept reservations for wireless access.
• The connection shall not be used for illegal purposes, nor used in such a way to violate library policies. The connection shall not be used for applications that require an excessive amount of bandwidth. Restricting excessive bandwidth use allows the library to ensure network reliability and fair sharing of network resources for all patrons.
• By accessing the wireless network from the library, users are agreeing to abide by all library policies and procedures.