WiFi & Computer Access
Wireless Access
Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the Library. Connect to Wi-Fi network named “Pawtucket Library Guest”.
Free outdoor Wi-Fi is also available 24/7. Access the outside Wi-Fi on the Library’s entrance walkway, bench, front steps and adjacent library parking lot. Connect to Wi-Fi network named “Library_ParkingLot”Wireless Access Policy
Any person choosing to use this free wireless service to connect to the Internet must abide by the Pawtucket Public Library’s Internet Use Policy. Users who violate the terms of the policy, other library policies or use the network for abusive, malicious or illegal activity will be banned from the network. Like all Internet access within the Library, the wireless Internet access provided by the library is filtered.
Limitations and Disclaimers
The Library's wireless network is not secure. Information sent from or to your device could be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software within a few hundred feet. The Library staff is unable to provide individuals with technical assistance. Due to the many differences between operating systems and wireless cards, no guarantee can be given that all users will be able to make a wireless connection. The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment, laptop configuration changes, or security of personal data files resulting from connection to the Library's network. The wireless user is responsible for protecting their own laptop from viruses and other Internet threats through the use of antivirus software and/or personal firewall. Such protection is highly recommended.
Computer Use Policies
All computer room workstations have Internet access, Windows 10 and Microsoft Office. Computer sessions may be limited to 60 minutes when others are waiting. Two Express PCs are available for one 15-minute session per day. External USB floppy and CD/DVD drives are available for use when using a library workstation.
Your session will be limited to 60 minutes when others are waiting.
Use of the Express PC is limited to one 15-minute session per day.
Computer users must end their session when requested to do so.
Only two people may use the computer at a time. Please ask library staff for any exceptions.
Personal headphones/ear-buds must be used when sound is enabled.
Anything downloaded to the computer’s hard drive is not permanently saved. To save your files, download to your own external storage device. (USB Flash Drive, CD/DVD, etc.)
Accessing sites that can be considered obscene by local community standards, harmful to minors, including child pornography or are illegal is not allowed. Patrons repeatedly visiting such sites will be barred from using the library computers for 6 months.
No modifications or attempts to modify the computer’s hardware, software or network are allowed. Attempts to circumvent the time management software program will result in an immediate termination of session and is a violation of policy.
Use of the computer indicates acceptance of library rules and policy. Violation of policy will terminate your current session and may result in denial of access for 6 months.
These rules are in addition to the Library’s Internet Use Policy.
Final appeals to the enforcement of these rules or to the rules themselves can be made to the Board of Trustees. Appeals must be made in writing one week prior to the Board’s scheduled meetings and should be sent in care of the Library Director.
Although the Internet provides many sources of valuable information, the library is not able to monitor or control the content and/or quality of all materials on the Internet. The library claims no responsibility with regard to specific sites, information and/or availability. Some information available on the Internet may not be accurate. Users are encouraged to evaluate the validity of information accessed on the Internet. The library offers tips for users in evaluating websites. Please ask staff members for a printed brochure.
The library does use filtering software to restrict access to certain categories of sites that do not conform to its mission. However, parents or guardians are responsible for their children’s (under 17) use of Internet resources and are advised to supervise their children’s on-line sessions. As with other library materials, any restriction of a child’s access to the Internet beyond the categories the library restricts rests solely with the parent or legal guardian. For help with issues of Internet safety and security consult Internet Search & Safety Tools on the library’s website under “Selected Web Sites” or ask the library staff for help.
Users should know that no filtering product is totally effective and it is possible that some material that may be considered inappropriate or offensive by some users may still be accessible and/or visible. If you discover a website that you feel should/should not be accessible, please feel free to speak to a librarian. Objections to the library’s policies can be made to the Library’s Board of Trustees.
Pawtucket Public Library or library staff members cannot be held responsible for an individual’s Internet activity. The library does not disclose information about an individual’s use of the Internet or personal information about that individual unless the Internet is used for illegal purposes or unless the library is required to do so by the USA PATRIOT Act. Failure to use the Internet appropriately and responsibly will result in the loss of Internet privileges and could lead to criminal prosecution.
Library staff will assist users, time permitting. Please ask a librarian for help in searching for information on the Internet or consult the library’s web page for a categorized listing of recommended websites. The library offers training on Internet use; please ask for information about classes in the Computer Room. For additional help, the library’s collection also includes books and videos on using the Internet.
