Access library computers and wifi
Connect to the internet and use Office-based software on the public computers at all our library branches.
Project Status: When you need to do this
Residents can use library computers for all their web needs including research, email and study. For some services, bookings are required and fees apply.
What you need to do
Bring your own battery-powered laptop or other mobile device and connect to the free wifi at all library branches, including Pyrmont Link and Town Hall Express.
- You need to bring your own headphones with inbuilt microphone to use Skype.
- All files need to be saved to a USB stick. You can use your own USB or purchase one from the library, priced between $5 and $20.
- Scanning is free at each library branch. You'll need a USB to save your scan.
You must read and follow to our conditions of use for computers and internet access, even with your own equipment.
Printing isn't available with the wifi service. You’ll need to book a computer to print.
Before you start
Computer bookings
We’re gradually transitioning to reopening our library branches and services to protect visitors and our employees.
To provide online access, we’re making the public computers at some branches available to book free of charge.
Free research browsing
- Free web browsing is available to the public on computers labelled 'Research' at each branch.
- No card, ticket or registration is required.
Software and hardware
All computers are PC-based and use Windows 10, Microsoft Office 2016 and the latest internet browsers including Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
Skype is available for video and voice calls on most computers, which have a camera installed.
Adobe Creative Cloud for graphic design, video and photo editing, and website development is available on 16 computers on level 2 at Kings Cross Library, 10 computers at Darling Square Library and 4 computers at Green Square Library. The cloud gives you access to Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Adobe Premiere Pro and other applications.
Library fees and charges
Costs of computer use
Members
Members can use the computers at no charge for a maximum of 3 hours a day. Add money to your library card at the self-service kiosk to access printing and photocopying services. Kiosks accept major credit and debit cards as well as cash but don't give change. Printing charges are deducted automatically.
Non-members
Non-members will need to purchase a casual use ticket from the self-service kiosk to use the computers. 30 minute access costs $3.50 with a maximum of 3 hours a day. Extra charges like printing deducted automatically from the ticket. You can also use the ticket for self-service photocopying. Kiosks accept major credit and debit cards as well as cash but don't give change. Tickets are valid for 90 days from time of purchase.
If you have credit remaining on the access cards used with the previous computer system, credit can be transferred to your library card or a casual use ticket at the kiosk.
Printing charges
- A4 black and white: 20c a page
- A4 colour: $2 a page
- A3 black and white: 30c a page
- A3 colour: $3 a page
