Computers and internet

Wifi

Wifi is available for library members bringing their own laptops or devices into the library. If you are a member, you can use the library’s wifi for free by showing your e+ card or membership card in order to get the password.

Public computers

There are computers in all our libraries for public use. Read our internet use policy before using our computers.

Time limits and charges

Bracknell Forest library members can use the computers free of charge for at least 1 hour a day. There is a charge of £4.50 per half hour for non members.

Subject to availability, users are allowed a maximum of 2 hours per day in total. This can be staggered throughout the day or used in one sitting. A user may begin their session in one Bracknell Forest library and continue it in another. The maximum time is 2 hours per day, not 2 hours per library.

Booking sessions

You can book a computer in advance:

  • in the library - on screen before your current session ends or at the counter
  • by calling customer services on 01344 352000 (have your library membership number to hand)

Our online booking system is currently unavailable. We apologise for any inconvenience.

If you have not booked a computer and you find that all the computers are in use when you arrive at the library, go to the counter and ask a member of staff to book a session for you on the next available computer.

If you do not do this, current sessions may be extended by the people who are already using the computers and you will have to wait longer for a computer to become available.

If computers are available when you arrive, you can use them until the next booked session begins. The login screen will tell you how long you have until the next booking.

Software available

The internet is available through Edge, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.

The software installed on our computers is Microsoft Office 2016. It includes the following:

  • Adobe Reader (for viewing and creating pdfs)
  • IrFanView (graphics editor)
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Paint
  • Microsoft Powerpoint
  • Microsoft Publisher
  • Microsoft Video Editor
  • Microsoft Word
  • Paint 3D (raster graphics editor, allowing the user to paint and edit pictures)
  • Real Player (allowing the playback of recorded media)
  • VLC Media Player

Use of USB storage device

Customers can upload and download files from and onto their own removable USB. USBs are available to buy for £5.60 at all our libraries.

Printing and scanning

Printing costs 20 pence per A4 sheet for black and white copies and 50 pence per A4 sheet for colour copies. Scanners are also available in all libraries.

Library catalogue

You can access the library catalogue through the computers in our libraries. It is possible to search, request or renew items from all our libraries.

Online resources

Our online resources page has a variety of links to information such as encyclopaedias and family history sites.

Contact information

Bracknell Forest Libraries

Make an enquiry