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Internet computers

Photo: computers in Foleshill Community Library

Library members can use the internet free of charge for up to one hour per day.


People's Network

Thanks to support from Coventry City Council and the New Opportunities Fund of the National Lottery, Coventry Libraries have introduced free computer and internet access in all your libraries in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use the computers for?

Who can use the computers and the Internet?

How much does it cost?

How long can I use the internet?

Do I need to book?

Can I download and save information?

Can I use e-mail?

Will you train me to use a computer?

Do you protect against computer viruses?

What about unsuitable websites?

Can I transfer files from a Mac to a PC?

What can I use the computers for?

  • Access to the Internet for business and leisure
  • Emailing friends, relatives and business colleagues
  • Word processing your CV
  • Desk Top Publishing
  • Homework
  • Finding information
  • Scanning documents
  • Word processing in other languages at most libraries
  • Creating spreadsheets

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Who can use the computers and the Internet?
Anyone, you need to have a library ticket, it is easy to join the library, please take a proof of identification with you. Under 16s must have their parent or carer's permission.

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How much does it cost?

First hour Free, Limited to one hour per day - Additional time £1.20 per hour or part of an hour.
Booking extra time on computers can only be done in person in the library, is subject to availability and paid for in advance at the time of booking.
Prints cost 14p for black and white, 60p for colour.

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How long can I use the Internet?

One hour free, extra time is paid for if a computer is availabile.

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Do I need to book?

Yes. You can book through the library up to a week in advance. You can book a computer online. To do this you need to have your library ticket number, which you will find on the barcode and your PIN number.
If you do not have a PIN number staff at your local library will provide you with one in person or by post. You can change your PIN number if you wish either by asking in the library or via the library catalogue.
Your PIN number is for your security. Please do not tell it to anyone else, as they will be able to get access to your library details.
OR You can call in or telephone your local library to check availability.

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Can I download and save information?

Yes. You can save to the hard drive temporarily or to a floppy disk or CDR. You can buy floppy disks and CDRs in the library if you don’t have one of your own.

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Can I use e-mail?

Yes. You can set up an account on any web-based service; Yahoo, Hotmail etc.

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Will you train me to use a computer?

We can’t offer formal training but staff will be happy to help with simple guidance and can advise you on training courses.

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Do you protect agains computer viruses?

Yes. All the computers have anti-virus software which is regularly updated. All floppy disks and CDRs will be virus checked before use.

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What about unsuitable websites?

The system we use contains filters which eliminate most material of this type. However we expect everyone to abide by our Internet policy.

Click here for a parents' guide to the Internet and chat rooms produced by the charity Childnet International.

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Can I transfer files from a Mac to a PC?

Yes but you must save the file as an 'ascii' file.

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So why not call your local community library and try them yourself. It’s easy to book… just call in or phone the library you would like to use. Our helpful and friendly staff will be happy to answer your questions about the service.

To find out how you can get in touch with your local library then visit our community libraries page.

Contact Details

access@central
Central Library
Smithford way
Coventry
CV1 1FY

e-mail: central.library@coventry.gov.uk
Telephone: 024 7683 2583
Text phone: 024 7683 2395

Downloadable documents