Technology and Creativity-Computers and Internet Access

Computer, Internet and printing services are available at both of our locations. We also offer computer courses and have scanners.

Computers

All of our public computers have USB ports, high speed internet, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Publisher and Excel. Computers in the MakerSpace and the Digital Media Lab have Adobe Creative Cloud Suite and video and sound editing capabilities.

How do I login to a computer?

You will need a library card and PIN number to login to the computers.

Forgot your PIN?

If you have forgotten your PIN number, please see a Library staff member at a service desk.

What if I don't have a library card?

If you're a resident of Brantford, Brant County or Six Nations, you can apply for a library card for free.

How much time do I have on a computer?

There is a three-hour time limit at the Main Branch and a one-hour limit at the St. Paul Branch.

We also have computers that can be used for 30 minutes on a first-come-first-served basis at the Main Branch.

Is my personal information safe?

All items saved on the computer including internet search history will be removed from the hard drive when your session ends.

How do I reserve a computer?

Computer stations can be reserved by contacting the library, using a self-serve reservation station in the Library or in-person with a staff member.

Please note that reservations:

  • can be made up to 2 weeks in advance
  • are held for ten minutes before it is forfeited

Reservations are recommended, but computers can be used on a first-come-first-served basis.

Laptops

Laptop computers can also be borrowed which can be borrowed for up to seven days. See our Laptop and Tablet Loans page for more information. 

Wi-Fi access

We offer free Wi-Fi access at both of our branches. To connect to the Wi-Fi, open your connection settings to see available networks, select BPL_HOTSPOT and click connect, accept the terms and conditions.

You can also borrow WIFI hotspot devices. There are two options to choose from: The LTE Rocket Stick is connected directly to your device, while the MiFi 8000 is a stand-alone unit. 

Wi-Fi and internet use policies

Users of the wireless internet service are bound by the terms of Brantford Public Library's Code of Conduct and Internet Access policy.

The Library's wireless access points are unsecured connections to the Internet. The Library is not responsible for data transmitted or loss of information over the wireless network. Users should be aware that third parties may be able to obtain information about the users' activities when using the wireless service to connect to the internet. The Library assumes no responsibility for the security and privacy of online transactions.

Wireless users are responsible for the protection of their devices from viruses, spyware and spam. The Library is not responsible for the safety of equipment or for laptop configurations. The Library provides basic instructions on how to connect to the network but is not able to provide technical assistance.

Scanning

You can scan directly to your USB drive using our photocopier. Make high quality scans using our Café Pro Professional Book Scanner or our flatbed scanner and save them to a USB stick or printed. It is free to scan documents at the Library and all scanning services are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Computer Help

We offer computer courses, drop-in tech time help clinics and one-on-one appointments with Library staff to help you with:

  • basic technical issues
  • downloading e-books
  • using our online resources

You can also watch computer tutorials for free with your library card through LinkedIn Learning. LinkedIn Learning videos can be watched 24/7.