Public Computers

The Grand Rapids Public Library has nearly 200 computers available for patron use at its Main and seven branch libraries.

To use a computer, you need a valid library card or permanent internet card. Computer sessions are limited to 1 hour per day for library card holders and 30 minutes per day for internet card holders. Patrons with library fines over $40 are not able to use the public computers.

All public computers contain:

• OpenOffice Suite, an open source software that is free for the library to use. This software includes word processing, spreadsheets, and multimedia presentations. The library offers classes to learn how to use this software
• Mozilla FireFox for web browsing and common plug-in use.
• Ahead Nero CD burning software.

Other information:

• Headphones may be used to listen to audio. A patron may bring their own or purchase headphones at the library.
• Computer files can be saved on a floppy disk, USB Flash drive, or a CD (available only on certain computers). Disks, flash drives and CDs are available for purchase at the library.
• Both black & white, and color printing are available. Black and white prints cost .15 cents per page and color prints cost .50 per page. Jobs are queued before printing so they can be previewed before incurring any costs.

Laptop Connections and Wi-Fi service

Free wireless (802.11b/g) access is available in all 8 library locations.

Patrons need a network card configured to use TCP/IP and to obtain an IP address automatically via DHCP. The library's network is called 'pubacc'.

Due to the proliferation of malware and its negative effects on our networks, we limit outbound connections to HTTP and HTTPS traffic. Many Web applications have an option to work from "behind a firewall" to facilitate their use. If you have issues with a specific application, or a suggestion for other ports that would likely need access, please let us know.

Printing

• A printer appearing as a Windows network printer is available at each location. A patron using a laptop will need to install a new printer using a building ID and the printer name:
  
  

  Location	Printer Designation
  Main Library	\\ism1\printer1
  Madison Square	\\madison\printer1
  Ottawa Hills	\\ottawa\printer1
  Seymour	\\seymour\printer1
  Van Belkum at Creston	\\creston\printer1
  West Leonard	\\westleonard\printer1
  West Side	\\westside\printer1
  Yankee Clipper	\\yankee\printer1

  
  
  
• You may also use any standard Postscript driver. We recommend something like 'HP LaserJet 5/5M Postscript'. Here is an example for Windows XP.
• Both black and white and color printing is available. Black and white prints cost .15 cents per page and color prints cost .50 per page. Jobs are queued before printing so they can be previewed before incurring any costs.
• MAC OSX users can print by setting up a printer to use "IP Printing" to the LPR service. The printer address is ism1 (for Main only, otherwise use the branch name under the Printer Designation listed above) and the queue name is hold.

Data Jacks at the Main Library

• Connections points (RJ45 jacks) can be found in table tops on the Lower Level and along the bottom of the four railings on the third floor atrium. The jacks are labeled PUBACC.
• Patrons should have their network card configured to use the TCP/IP and get an IP address automatically via DHCP. Modems will not work with these jacks and may become damaged if connected to them.

The Grand Rapids Public Library reserves the right to terminate network connections in accordance with Library policies and Federal, State and local laws.