Computers and Internet
| Computer Use Guidelines Wireless |
Types of Computers and Accessories
All 16 London Public Library locations have filtered and unfiltered computers for your free use. Signs on the computers designate the functions possible for that particular workstation.
You can choose a machine based on your needs.
Internet Station
(90 minutes/day)
Each location has one machine which is bookable. Book a computer online.
- Log on with your library card & PIN
- Search the Internet, check e-mail
- Office 2003 Suite (Word, Excel, Internet Explorer, PowerPoint, Media Player)
- Adobe Reader 9
- FireFox 3
- Open Office 3
- Print with a copy card
- Save documents to floppy disk or jump drive
Accessibility Options include onscreen keyboard, Narrator (to use with headphones) and Magnifer.
Internet Express Station *
(20 minutes/day)
- All the same services as an Internet Station
- No library card required
*Not available at Central Library or Glanworth Branch; visitors to London may request a Visitors' Pass with proof of address
CD-ROM Station
- No library card required
- Filled with literacy and numeracy building software for children to enjoy
Staff-Assisted Research Station
- Ask a Staff Person to log on
- Use for Information Databases & Internet Based Research
- Microsoft Office
- Save documents to floppy disc or jump drive
- Print with a copy card
Library Service Station
- Use the LPL Catalogue and Information Databases
- View your library account
- Reserve a library Internet Station
- Register for programs
- Place holds
- Print items from the catalogue with a copy card
IBM Homework Station
(Available at select locations)
- Especially for Students
- Log on with your library card & PIN
- All the same services as an Internet Station
- Print with a copy card
- Save documents to floppy disc or jump drive
About Reserving a Computer
Public computer stations are available at all locations for the public’s use to provide access to a variety of software and electronic services. To assist with timely access to machines, we offer a Reservation system which will allow individuals to reserve a machine in adance of their visit at a location in person, online, or over the telephone. Reserveable machines are labeled both in the reservation system and on the computer's monitor.
The intention is that the system will be self-serve; however, we will offer staff assistance, if requested.
Reservation How-To
- To complete a booking, you must have a PIN number already added to your library account. PIN numbers must be assigned in person at any circulation desk.
- You must also have logged into a library computer at least once before making a reservation.
- You may make a reservation at any catalogue or public workstation, reserve online on our web site or ask staff for assistance.
- You can reserve up to 4 reservations over a 14 day period. As one is used, the counter drops back to 3.
- Reservations are made on the ¼ hour (:00, :15, :30, :45) only, depending on availability.
- You should arrive before your scheduled reservation.
- Use only the machine that is reserved for you.
- If a reservation is cancelled, another may be made in its place until the maximum of 4 is reached.
- If reservations are missed, 10 minutes is docked from your daily time limit of 90 minutes, but another reservation can be made.
- Take note of your reservation computer name to ensure you log on to the correct machine. Use the reminder pads to record info.
Accessories
The library sells:
USB Flash Drive $6
Head Phones $1
OR .......
You can borrow these with a library card:
- Head phones
- USB Flash Drive
- Portable CD-ROM drive
- Portable Floppy Drive
Computer Classes
We have introductory courses for using a computer, the internet, setting up and email account and social media. If you've taken one of these courses, please give us computer course feedback.
Computers and Internet: Computer Use Guidelines
| Computer Use Guidelines Wireless |
Computer Use Guidelines
1. Computers are available during hours when Library facilities are open, subject to periodic maintenance. The Library reserves the right to dedicate computers for specific purposes and to enforce time limits on use. Computer use ends 5 minutes before Library closing.
2. A valid London Public Library borrower’s card is needed to access many computers. Patrons must use their own card to reserve or access these computers. Patrons may be asked by staff to show their cards or additional identification.
3. Users may not remove or adjust privacy devices from computer workstations.
4. Users are expected to have a basic knowledge of computers to use these workstations. Staff can provide information on training, tutorials and other resources for beginners.
5. Users may share a computer provided this is not disruptive to other patrons.
6. Only Library installed and supported software may be used on computers.
7. Uploading from and downloading to portable storage devices is available at some workstations. Patrons are responsible for protecting their personal data and ensuring the proper operation of their devices. The Library is not responsible for loss of data or damage to personal equipment resulting from the use of Library computers.
8. Users may borrow Computer accessories for set loan periods for use in the Library. Failure to return these items in good condition will result in items being billed to the borrower’s account.
9. Headphones must be worn when using computer audio.
10. Copy cards are needed for printing. Upon special request, printing by staff may be available at an extra cost. Patrons may not use their own paper in Library printers. Printing and downloading to portable storage devices should begin 30 minutes before Library closing time. Print jobs are held in the print queue for 120 minutes.
11. Users must close all programs and Internet sites and log off before leaving the workstation at the end of their sessions.
12. Use of computer workstations is conditional upon the user’s agreement to observe London Public Library’s policies and guidelines. Failure to comply may result in loss of Library privileges, exclusion from the Library for a period of time, and prosecution.
Computers, Wireless and Virtual Services: Wireless
| Computer Use Guidelines Website and Catalogue Website Terms of Use Wireless |
Did you know that London Public Library provides free wireless Internet access at our locations*?
All that you need to connect to this free network is a valid LPL card and PIN.
- Need to update your PIN?
- Need to update your card?
- Never had a card?
- Visiting London?
- Booking Meeting Space?
* not currently available at Glanworth
How do I use wireless Internet at the library?
Login instructions as of March 5, 2012
- Browse available wireless networks and choose LondonPublicLibrary
- Read "I Agree" Statement
- Enter your library barcode (starts with 22104)
- Enter 4 digit PIN
- Accept "I Agree" Statement
You are now free to browse the Internet until 5 minutes before library closing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the service available, and is there a time limit?
Wireless service is available during regular hours at each location until 5 minutes before closing. You may use the service for as long as the library is open.
Can guests or visitors to London access the wireless network?
Wireless access for visitors without a London Public Library card can often be accomodated. Talk to staff at any of our locations you visit for more information.
Will we need a Library Card to log in to the wireless in Library Meeting Spaces?
The Library will provide free wireless access for those attending programs or renting space in our meeting spaces. For more information, please contact our Community Outreach and Program Services office, 519-661-5122.
Is the wireless network secure?
By their very nature, public WiFi networks are not secure. Use this service at your own risk.
Is the wireless connection filtered?
No, the wireless connection is not filtered for content.
Can I access LPL online databases?
Absolutely! Online databases can be accessed from the LPL website. You will still need your valid borrower’s card to log on to the databases, just like from home. Our wifi can also be used to access and download audio and eBooks via our website.
Can I print from my wireless connection?
Unfortunately, wireless users cannot print directly to LPL printers. In order to print, please save to a portable storage device, and then use a public workstation as usual.
Who can I talk to about the wireless service?
You can talk to staff, or email us at info@lpl.london.on.ca
When you come into the library, bring your library card and ask staff to help you set (or reset) you PIN.
I think my card is expired. What do I do?
When you come into the library, bring your library card and a piece of ID with your address and ask staff to update your card. You will need to pay off any outstanding fines.
I've never had a LPL card? How do I get one?
Getting a Library Card is easy and takes just a few minutes in person at any library location. Also, there are many other useful tools, collections and services that you can take advantage of with your LPL card.
Book a Computer
Internet Reservation is currently unavailable as we upgrade to a new reservation system to begin in late fall. Internet computers are available on a first- come, first-serve serve basis at your Library for 75 minute blocks per day. All you need is a valid London Public Library card.
For more information about computers and computer use at your library, visit All about Computers.