Come and use our computers for free!
We have approximately 200 computers available for you to use throughout Bolton libraries. Even our smaller libraries have public computers so come on in and take advantage of this free service.
If you aren't familiar with computers why not check out the beginners' computer classes we offer in several of our libraries - see the link Adult Learning in Bolton Libraries.
Alternatively, there are a range of online courses that you can work your own way through at your own pace. Please see the link to the related page Online courses at your library, available on the right.
You can use our computers to:
- Access the internet and use web based email
- Use Microsoft Office 2003 applications (Word, Excel, Access, Frontpage, Publisher, InfoPath, and Powerpoint)
- Print documents in black and white (colour printing available in some libraries)
- Save documents onto a USB 'flash' drive (memory stick)
Booking a computer
Advanced bookings are not always necessary. If all computers are in use when you visit, you will be entered into a queue. Alternatively, you can pre-book a slot up to one week in advance.
Bookings can be made in person when you visit the library or by telephone - see the contact information on this page.
How long can I use the computers for?
You can use the computer for up to an hour per day, for free. This is dependent upon demand. It may be possible to book additional time on a computer but there is a charge for this and, again, it is dependent upon demand. Please see our
Library charges page for details.
What do I do if I haven't finished my work at the end of my hour?
Five minutes before a session is due to end, the system will issue a warning. Two minutes before the session ends, the system will issue a critical warning. It is important to save your work at this time otherwise you will lose it. You can then either book for another day or pay for additional time, although this is dependent upon demand.
Can I bring in my own memory stick to use on the computers?
Yes - you may attach media storage devices to suitably equipped computers. However, you may not, under any circumstances attach any devices with processing capability to library computers. These include but are not limited to, laptop computers, PDAs and mobile phones.
When you use a personal computer provided by Bolton libraries, you are automatically agreeing to abide by our terms and conditions.