Computer & Internet Access

The Somerville Public Library is pleased to offer free computer and Internet access to the public. This service is available any time the Central or branch libraries are open.

Please be aware that cell phone conversations are not permitted in any part of the library. You may use headphones with your laptop or device so long as the sound does not disturb other patrons.

Failure to comply with the Somerville Public Library Computer and Internet Policy may result in the loss of your computer and Internet privileges.

WiFi Access

You may connect to our WiFi using the same network and password at all three library buildings:

  • Network: SPL-wifi
  • Password: librarywifi

We regret that we cannot configure your equipment or help you with troubleshooting your device. The Somerville Public Library takes no responsibility for any damage caused to any device from configuration changes or software downloaded while accessing our wireless Internet. The wireless signal and the bandwidth are not within our control; the library is not responsible if you cannot get on to the Internet at any time. Wireless users accessing the library's connection must agree to the Somerville Public Library Computer and Internet Policy.

Printing at the Library

Computers print to a shared printer.

We currently offer $3.00 of free printing (20 black & white pages or 10 color pages) per day. All additional print jobs can be paid for in cash at the Reference Desk.

 

Wireless Printing

We are happy to offer our new wireless printing service.

At the Central Library:

At the East Branch Library:

At the West Branch Library:

Once you send your print job, you will recieve an automated confirmation email. You can then release your print job from the print release station at the library by typing in your email address.

 

Computer Access at the Central Library

The following computers are available in Wellington Hall on the 2nd floor of the Central Library:

  • Nine Windows 11 computers with Microsoft Office, including one computer with access to Adobe Creative Cloud (note: Creative Cloud requires a login with a free Adobe account)
  • One computer attached to a microfilm reader
  • One computer attached to a scanner
  • Two express computers with an attached printer for jobs less than 25 pages
  • Three Chromebases offer Internet access only, including one with a high-visibility keyboard
  • Five Chromebooks are available at the Reference Desk for in-house use only
  • Two Windows 11 laptops for in-house use only

The Teen Room offers the following computers for teen use only:

  • Four Windows 11 computers with Microsoft Office
  • Four Chromebooks are available at the Teen Desk for in-house use only

The Children's Room offers the following:

  • Four Windows 11 PCs for gaming
  • Two Chromebooks are available at the Children's Desk for in-house use only

Computer Access at the East Branch

  • Four Windows 11 computers with Microsoft Office
  • Five Chromebooks are available at the desk for in-house use only
  • Two Windows 11 laptops for in-house use only

Computer Access at the West Branch

  • Five Windows 11 computers with Microsoft Office
  • Nine Chromebooks are available at the desk for in-house use only
  • Six Windows 11 laptops for in-house use only

Rules for Using Computers at the Library

Use of the public computers requires a Minuteman Library card. If you do not have a Minuteman Library card, a staff member can provide you with a guest pass. Express and catalog computers do not require a sign-in with a library card.

  • To use a public computer, sit down at any numbered computer and enter the number on the back of your library card (leaving out the spaces).
  • Patrons are allotted two hours a day, with an extension of an additional two hours if no one is waiting. If a patron only uses part of their allotted two hours, the balance of their time remains available.
  • Patrons must use their own library card and can only sign up for themselves.
  • Only one person at a time may use any single computer.
  • Chromebooks and laptops are available to be checked out to patrons with library cards in good standing. Chromebooks have an 8-hour limit. After the 8-hour limit, patrons will be charged a late fee of $5.00 per hour.
  • Problems with the computers/network/Internet are often beyond the control of library staff. If you lose a portion of your time due to such problems, librarians may try give you more time, at their discretion.
  • Express computers are designed for quick use, such as checking email, printing tickets, etc. These express stations are first-come, first-serve, do not require a sign-in, and usage is limited to 15 minutes.