Index of information on this page
The Peoples
Network
The Peoples Network is
a scheme by which all public libraries offer broadband access to
the Internet, providing everyone in the UK with the opportunity to
use a computer and get online.
As part of the Peoples Network project over 200 public access
PCs have been installed in Northumberland's 34 libraries.
They are yours to use FREE of charge for up to 2 hours per day
for library members (£1 per additional half hour). Guest/Visitors
using the PC facilities are charge £1 per half hour.
We also have Microsoft Office software, which includes word
processing, spreadsheet, presentation and database applications.
There are also flatbed scanners in most libraries and CD burning
facilities.
Computer Booking can be made one week in advance by phone or
by visiting your local library.
Frequently Asked
Questions:
Can anyone use the
computers?
Anyone may use the service but children aged 8 years and
under must be accompanied at all times by a parent or
guardian. Children aged 9 - 15 years may use the PCs
unaccompanied but must have parental permission.
Is there a charge for using the
computers?
Library members can use the computer
facilities for up to 2 hours per day free of charge - any
additional use costs £1 per half hour. Guests/Visitors to the
library may use the computers at a charge of £1 per half
hour.
I'm just using Microsoft Word do I still have to
pay?
Yes. The charges apply to the use of our
computer facilities not just the Internet.
How long can I use the
computers for?
The maximum session that can be
booked at a time is one hour. Additional time can be booked if
a computer is available. Some libraries have short stay PCs that
only allow use for 15 minutes - these are particular useful if you
just want to quickly check emails.
Do you have WIFI facilities in any or your
libraries?
No, not at the moment.
Can I use my own laptop in the
library?
Yes, but you cannot access the Internet
through your laptop. If you want to plug your laptop in you
need to ask a member of staff first.
I have no idea what I am
doing. Can you help?
We cannot offer one to one tuition but all staff have some
knowledge of ICT and can help get you started. There are some
useful ICT tuition websites that staff can introduce you to which
can help you learn about computers at your own pace.
Can I send an
email?
Yes. We also have leaflets on how to set up an email account and
how to send attachments.
Can I
print?
Yes - it costs 30p per page for colour and 20p per
page for black and white sheets.
Can I shop online?
Yes but the County
Council bears no responsibility for anything bought on library
PCs.
Do I have to book in advance?
You don't
have to but the PCs can get busy so if you want to make sure you
get one book ahead (by phone or in person).
What software do you have
available?
We have the standard Microsoft Office software - Word, Excel,
Access and Publisher.
Do you have
scanners?
Yes we have HP flatbed scanners in most libraries, with
instructions on how to use them. It's advisable to book in advance
if you want to use one.
Can I use a memory
stick?
512mb memory sticks cost £5.99
2GB memory sticks cost £6.99
4GB memory sticks cost £7.99
Please note that not every size of
memory stick is available in every library.
Why is the website I want to
view blocked?
The County Council uses filtering software to block access to
websites that the Council judges to be inappropriate. The filtering
software is not infallible and can sometimes block sites that are
not inappropriate. If this happens ask a member of staff and we
will try and get the block lifted.
What facilities do you have
for disable people?
Most libraries have specially designed computers with a large
keyboard, screen and tracker ball mouse. The PC desks are also
height adjustable. All PCs have text magnifying software and other
accessibility options.
