Computers & Technology FAQs

  • Hardware

    Public internet computers are available from library open time until 15 minutes before closing time.

    USB storage devices may be used to save or retrieve files, but patrons may not plug non-Library-owned devices into the Library's computers, network connections, or monitors.

  • Wi-Fi

    Yes, all library locations offer free Wi-Fi internet access.

    Connect to network LibraryGuest. Open a browser window to agree to terms of service for access. 

    Wi-Fi is available from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. everyday.

    Wi-Fi is available throughout all library buildings.

    Wi-Fi signals extend to some outside areas on library grounds.

    You can plug your device into electrical outlets at the library, but the Library assumes no responsibility for personal equipment plugged into our electrical outlets.

    Electrical outlets may not always be available. Do not unplug the Library's equipment for any reason.

    Do not string electrical cords across areas where people may be walking.

    Saint Paul Public Library's Wi-Fi network is an Open network which means it is NOT encrypted and NOT secure.

    We cannot guarantee the safety of your traffic across the Wi-Fi network and we assume no responsibility for the configurations, security or files on your device resulting from connection to the Wi-Fi network. Information sent to or from your device can be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and appropriate software.

    Choose the network named Library Guest.

    Open a web browser and click Agree to connect.

    No special settings, usernames or passwords are required.

    Wireless network users agree to abide by the Library's Computer and Internet Use Policy.

    Library staff cannot disable the filter on non-library computers.

    Use of webcams are subject to the photography and videography policy that governs all audio and visual recording in the Library.

  • Printing

    Yes!

    Please see Printing information for details on how to send your document to the library's printers.

    • 15 cents per side (black and white)
    • 75 cents per side (color)
    • Payable by cash or check

  • Time Limits and Reservations

    Computers can be locked for up to 10 minutes. Time spent locked is counted against the daily time limit.

    The maximum time per person per day is 2 hours.

    The maximum session time is 1 hour.

    At locations using reservations to manage computers, sign in at a computer reservation station to be assigned a computer and time. The maximum time that can be reserved is 1 hour.

  • Sound

    You can use the library's headphones or your own headphones to listen to audio on the library's public internet computers.

    Do not connect speakers to the library's computers.

    Do not play audio so loudly that others can hear it.

    The library's catalog and database computers do no support audio, even with headphones.

  • Downloading

    Files cannot be downloaded to the library's computers. If you need to save files, save them to a cloud service like Google Drive, bring your own storage media or purchase a flash drive at the library.

    Virus-checking software on the library's computers will not protect your computer if you use program files downloaded to your own storage media. If you download files at the library for use on your own computer, it is recommended that you install virus protection software on your own computer.

  • Software

    Public internet computers have Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office. Microsoft Office includes:

    • Word
    • Excel
    • PowerPoint

    Patrons may not install their own software on library computers.