Encore Catalog:

Classic Catalog

Computer User Information

Need help booking a computer?

Download the guide here.

Hours and Time Limits

• You must have a Berkeley Public Library card to log in to the system.
• You must know your PIN number, which is the last 4 digits of the phone number entered into your library card account.
• In order to log in to the reservation system, you must disable any pop-up blocking software running on your Web browser.
• Computer time is available until 10 minutes prior to closing.
• Cardholders may use up to two hours of computer time (internet desktop and/or laptop where available) each day at Central and Branches.
• In order to make a second reservation in a single day, the first reserved session must be used and completed.
• The Library has installed time-out software that tracks computer use and allows reservations.
• Staff may reserve computers for library programs.
• For further details about time limits, log in and reservations, see Frequently Asked Questions.

Laptop Lending Program

• Patrons can checkout a Laptop for two hours.
• Laptops are for in-library use only, and are available at the Circulation Desk at all branches.
• Laptops work on the Library’s wireless system, allowing Internet access.
• All Patron Types except ‘Temporary Patron’ may checkout a lap top.
• Read more here: Laptop Program Facts

Need Computer Help?

Please click on the links below for helpful information on the computers at the library.

• About the Library's Computers
• Opening a Document on the Library's Computers
• Introduction to Office 2007
• Viewing Photos on the Library's Computers
• Working with Removable Disks (Flash Drives): Saving a file
• Working with Removable Disks (Flash Drives): Uploading a file

Adaptive Internet Workstations

Adaptive Internet workstations are available at the Central Library. Please call 510-981-6195 for more information. Berkeley Reads, the Library's adult literacy program at the West Branch Library, has an Internet workstation available for people with learning disabilities. Call 510-981-6299 to check availability.

Children

Each Library has at least one computer for the sole use of children preschool through eighth grade. As with library materials, restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent/legal guardian.

Printing and Downloading

The Library provides paper and a networked printer, and charges 15 cents for printing. You may not use your own paper. For instructions on printing over the wireless network from your laptop, see our page on wireless access. The system does not permit downloading software, installing software or saving files to the hard drive. You may save your files to a formatted 3 1/4" floppy disk or a USB flash drive.

Email

To email from the Library, you must use a personal email account which is either web-based or available via telnet. Several sites offer free email accounts. Check the Infopeople Project for a list of these websites.

User Responsibilities

Please report equipment problems to library staff. It is illegal to physically or electronically modify computer equipment, or tamper with hardware or software (California Penal Code, Section 502 et. seq.) Deliberate misuse of the computer or its components will result in loss of computer privileges; repair costs will be the responsibility of the user. Violating another's right to privacy or harassing other users or library staff are prohibited, and will result in loss of computer use privileges. The Library is not responsible for any loss or corruption of data or files resulting from use of public computers. View Library internet use policy.

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