Internet computers

Book a computer free of charge

All Solihull libraries have free internet access for library members.

Use any of these 3 easy ways - you just need your library card:

• Book a computer online in advance 
• Visit your local library and book a PC at the helpdesk
• Book a PC by telephoning your local library

• You can book a computer for up to an hour a day - this may be extended if the computer is not required by another person. If you are doing a Learndirect course with the library service you can book for up to 2 hours per day.

  All you pay for are print-outs, available in black and white and colour
  Library charges

• If you have never used a computer before don't panic! Our trained library staff will be happy to assist and guide you.  The Virtual Reference Library also includes the First Steps computer training programme, which you can use in the library or at home, to learn how to use computers from scratch.

  All libraries offer:

  PCs for public use

  • High-speed, broadband Internet access for web browsing and web email services
  • Microsoft software for:
    • Word - word-processing
    • Excel - spreadsheets
    • PowerPoint - presentations
    • Access - databases 

  In addition, we offer a wide range of information resources you can use in the library, and in some cases in your home or office. These include Encyclopedia Britannica, newspapers, family history resources, business information and resources to help with homework. Use the links below for more information
  
  Virtual Reference Library
  Heritage and Local Studies Service
  Business Information Service

  Scanners

  Scanners are available at all libraries.

  Children

  Our PCs are for children as well as adults. The Central Children's Library has PCs specifically for children. All library PCs have filtering software to help safeguard against access to unsuitable and offensive material.

  If you need help

  Our trained staff will make every effort to help if you need assistance, however staff cannot give individual training or advice on using specific products, but we do have:

  • A wide range of books you can borrow about using computers and particular software. The largest ranges of these are at Central, Balsall Common, Chelmsley Wood, Hobs Moat, Kingshurst and Shirley libraries.
  • Access to basic computer training with Learndirect at the Central Library, and Chelmsley Wood, Kingshurst, Castle Bromwich and Hobs Moat libraries.

  Conditions of Use

  When you start to use a PC you will be asked to agree and accept the conditions in:

• Conditions of use for library PCs
• Internet acceptable use policy

Contact Details

Addresses and telephone numbers for each library are provided on their individual pages.

For further information contact libraryarts@solihull.gov.uk