The West Des Moines Public Library currently provides computers for use by patrons in the library for Internet browsing, word processing and other productivity activities. There are certain policies and guidelines related to their use.
Regulation of the Public Computer Stations is at the discretion of the library staff.
Using the Library Computers
Internet-connected computer stations for adults are on the 2nd floor in the Adult Services area. A few stations for use by children or parents with children are in the Youth Services area on 1st floor.
Stations are available on a walk-in basis. Time limit on these stations is one (1) hour if another person is waiting. Time can be extended if there is no one waiting - ask staff.
To sign on to our computers, you will use your WDM library card number and a PIN or a guest pass and PIN. Guest passes are available at the nearest service desk. Contact a library staff member if you do not have or do not recall your library card PIN. Patrons may not misuse the sign-in process to gain additional periods of usage.
No more than two (2) people may use a computer station at once, except for adults with small children.
Children in second grade and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Software
Our public stations include a basic Microsoft Office suite – Word, Excel, Powerpoint and also Publisher.
All public stations have internet access – browsers include Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
Patrons are expected to be knowledgeable in basic computer operations. Library staff do not offer individualized instruction, but will answer questions as available.
You may download information to your own USB (flash, thumb) drive.
Printing, Wireless Printing, Copying, Faxing
Our public computers are all connected to network printers – one on each floor. There are costs for printing and copying, no cost for scanning or faxing.
For more information on Library printing and related services, please visit the Copy, Print & Fax page.
Wi-Fi in the Library
The Library also provides Wireless (Wi-Fi) Internet Access for those with their own devices.
Look for the Wi-Fi labelled "Library Public" when you open your Wi-Fi settings on your device. You should be able to connect freely - no password required.
Related Policies
Below excerpted from the WDM Library Policy Manual:
NON-PRINT INTERNET INFORMATION RESOURCES
The Internet is an unregulated global computer network. The West Des Moines Public Library provides public access to the Internet in order to augment the community’s educational resources. The West Des Moines Public Library cannot guarantee the accuracy and/or authenticity of information discovered through this resource. Patrons who find information or subject matter that is erroneous, out-of-date, illegal, offensive, and/or controversial should contact the original producer or distributor of that work directly. Library users of the Internet should be aware of the following:
- The West Des Moines Public Library holds the position that only parents and legal guardians have the right – and the responsibility – to monitor and control their own minor children’s access to the Internet and to information obtained from the Internet.
- The West Des Moines Public Library cannot guarantee confidentiality over the Internet. Patrons entering personal information (credit card numbers, social security numbers, etc.) do so at their own risk.
- The West Des Moines Public Library complies with the United States Copyright Law, and all other federal, state and local laws relating to the use of the Internet and other electronic media.
- The West Des Moines Public Library is not responsible for work or information lost due to computer or system malfunction.
Anyone using our Internet service - including via wireless on their own devices - are subject to the Library's Computer/Internet/Wi-fi Use Policy and the Library Conduct Policy.