Public Access Computers

Public computers with internet access, printing, and a variety of commonly used software are available at every library branch. All locations also have 15-minute express terminals for basic internet and word processing which do not require a library card and do not count toward the daily time limit.

Software

Using programs installed on the computers, customers can create documents, spreadsheets, and business or classroom presentations. These terminals also provide access to a variety of electronic resources, including NC LIVE, a collection of magazine and reference databases from the State Library. Click here for a list of software that is available on the adult and children's public computers.

Drives

All public terminals are capable of using flash drives (aka thumb drives). Some computers at Headquarters, North Regional, East Regional, Spring Lake, and Cliffdale have floppy disk drives. The computers also read and burn CD Roms. Audio is available on computers but customers must bring headphones.

Children's Computers

Computers are available in the children's department of every branch. These computers have fun and educational programs as well as heavy internet filtering.

A parent or legal guardian must accompany children of 7 years of age or younger while using the computer. Click here to learn what software is available on the children's computers.

Time Limits

Use of computers is on a first-come, first-served basis to holders of valid library cards. Temporary residents and visitors may obtain Temporary Computer Use cards.

Computer sessions are 1 hour each, and daily limits vary by branch.

Headquarters, Cliffdale Branch, Hope Mills Branch and West Regional Branch
Limit: 2 hours per day

Bordeaux Branch and North Regional Branch
Limit: 3 hours per day

East Regional Branch and Spring Lake Branch
Unlimited sessions

Note: Use of internet express and word processing terminals does not count toward daily limits.

Printing

Black and White and Color Printing is available at every branch. See the Fax, Copy and Print page for more details.

Downloading and saving

Anything that is downloaded or saved to the public computers will only be available for that session. Once the session ends, the computer deletes any downloaded or saved items. To save documents, you must use a flash drive or floppy disk.