Use a Computer at the Library

The High Plains Library District (HPLD) provides access to public computers and online information at its Branch library locations. Read the Policies and Guidelines for Internet Use.

A valid HPLD library card is required to use computers in the Library. If you live in the High Plains Library District service area and do not have a valid library card, apply online or at any library location. Out-of-town visitors may obtain a Net Card to access public computers. Please see staff for details.

Internet Access and Word Processing Computers
Branch libraries offer computers with free Internet access, resume software, word processing and other Microsoft products. Reservations for a one-hour session may be made at any library location using the designated PC Reservation Station. HPLD uses PC Reservation to ensure equity in computer use. Internet usage is not tracked in any way. Express Internet computers are also available in some libraries for quick email or Internet searching. If no one is waiting, library card holders may extend their one-hour session for up to four hours per day.

All Internet sessions time out automatically at the end of a session.

Printing from Computers
Computer users will be charged 10 cents per page for each page printed. Some library locations also offer color printing for 25 cents per page.

Some Alternatives to Printing

• Take notes. It saves you money and conserves paper.
• Email an article or website to yourself at your home, school or office computer.
• Save your word processing document to a flash drive. For your convenience, some library locations sell flash drives.

Researching beyond the Internet
You can search the library’s online Catalog and online Databases and eResources through the HPLD website. Every library has dedicated computers set aside for searching the Catalog and Databases. No reservations are needed. The online Catalog tells you what materials the Library owns and how to locate them.

The Library also provides access to a variety of online Databases and eResources, including encyclopedias, magazine and newspaper articles, medical and health information, business resources, and reference information on science, literature, math, the arts and education. These online Databases and eResources contain information not available through search engines like Google or Yahoo. The information in these resources has been written and reviewed by professionals, and provide a wealth of free information on thousands of topics, for a variety of age levels. Many online Databases and eResources are also available for free from home, office or school with a valid library card and access to the Internet.

WiFi
Most HPLD locations offer free wireless access to the Library’s WiFi network. Getting online is quick and simple. All you need is a wireless-enabled laptop computer, tablet PC or PDA. The Library’s network is open to all visitors free of charge and without filters. No special encryption settings, usernames or passwords are required.

Pick up the handy Using WiFi @ Your Library brochure at any library for troubleshooting and settings information.

Contact your Local Library for more information.