Access Internet and Computers

Hotspot Lending

Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi)

The library offers wireless access to patrons with laptop computers that are equipped to support the WiFi standard known as IEEE 802.11b or g. You may use the library printers if you save information to a flash drive. When you use the Internet in the library you are accepting the library’s Internet policy.

Please note that a WiFi network is less secure than a wired network. Patrons are responsible for protecting their personal information. Signal strength varies within the Library. The Library staff cannot assist you with your laptop, card or configuration.

Computers Available

Computers are available for public use free of charge. Most configurations include a DVD/CD/RW drive and USB ports. Computers have Internet access and access to a printer. Color, scanning, and copy features are available on some printers. Please review the configuration of the PC prior to using to make sure it has what you need.

Most, but not all, PCs offer Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and Publisher. Different editions (e.g., Word 2003 or Word 2010) may be available.

Printing fees:
black and white - 10 cents per page
color - 25 cents per page

Guidelines for Computer Use

Patrons should use the PCs in the areas designated for their use: adults in the adult areas, children in the Children’s Room. When computers are in high demand we limit time on the computer in order to make resources available to other patrons. The library reserves the right to end an Internet session.

Computer Classes

View computer classes available at the Oakland Public Library by clicking here.

Classes: The Oakland Public Library periodically offers several introductory classes and workshops on topics such as Introduction to Computers, Basic Mousing 101, Introduction to the Internet, Gmail 101, Facebook, Hoopla, Rosetta Stone, Searching the Internet, Twitter, cloudLibrary, Pinterest, Microsoft Excel Basics, and Microsoft Word Basics. Registration is required. Call the Adult Services at 201-337-3742 xt. 7004 for information and registration.

Online Training: if you are new to the computer, there’s an easy way to practice new things like how to use a keyboard and a mouse. Try some of these websites. Click on the link to begin:

Keyboarding Skills

http://www.goodtyping.com
http://www.internet4classrooms.com/winkeyboard.htm

Using the mouse

http://www.pbclibrary.org/mousing/intro.htm
http://pbclibrary.org/mousing/games.htm
http://www.pbclibrary.org/mousing/mousercise.htm

Help with Internet Explorer
http://www.internet4classrooms.com/on-line_ie.htm

Seniors
Computer articles and tips from AARP - http://www.aarp.org/technology
Free courses, news, online book discussions,
and much more - http://www.seniornet.org