Usage Guidelines

The Library provides Windows-based computers for customer use, for one hour per day. Users 17 and older are required to use the Adult Services computers. Customers under 12 are required to use workstations in the Children’s department. Teens, ages 12 to 16 can choose to use a computer in either Adult Services or Children’s (but not both). Computer access is free, but there is a 10 cents per page charge for printing.

By federal law, Internet access for children and teens (age 16 or younger) must be filtered even when accompanied by an adult.

Programs available on public workstations

  • Windows XP SP2
  • Adobe Acrobat
  • Internet Explorer
  • Microsoft Encarta Kids 2006
  • Microsoft Interactive Training
  • Adobe Acrobat 7.0
  • Adove SVG (ebook viewer)
  • Ancestry Plus Viewer
  • Microsoft Street/Trips 2005
  • Mavis Beacon Typing 16
  • Quicktime 6.0
  • iTunes
  • WinWay Resume Deluxe
  • RealPlayer 10.0
  • Bejeweled 2 Deluxe
  • Insaniquarium Deluxe
  • Super Glinx

Expectations for Use

Persons using the library workstations are expected to comply with the Library’s Bloomington Public Library Internet Policy and posted Expectations of Persons Using the Library. Damaging or altering workstation hardware or software are prohibited. In addition, users are expected to comply with copyright and database licensing agreements and to respect the privacy of other users. Users who do not comply with library policy will lose access to library computer workstations and may be asked to leave the Library. Copies of the Policy are available by asking a librarian at the Reference desk.

Library Catalog and Databases

Several workstations with the library catalog and other research resources are available. A library card is not required, and there are no time limits. There is a charge to print from these workstations. If the library is busy and people are waiting to use the catalog workstations, we ask that you limit your time on the available online resources.

Library staff will be happy to search the catalog for you or show you how get started if you need help.