Public Computers at Alamance County Public Libraries
First things first. In order to use the public computers at ACPL, patrons must have a ACPL Library Card in good standing. New patrons may obtain an ACPL card by completing a short application and showing a valid photo id with current address. When id has previous address, proof of new address will be accepted along with photo id. When no proof of local address is available or the individual is only here for a temporary period, a Computer Use Only card can be issued allowing the new patron access to public computers. Stop by the Circulation (Check-Out) Desk for details.
There are specific rules for minor use of public computers that require parent permission for all individuals under the age of 17. Internet permission cards are kept at the Reference and/or Children Desk and must be signed in person by a parent or legal guardian. For individuals under the age of 13, a parent or guardian must sit attentively with the young patron while on the internet. Please check with Library personnel for specific details and/or further information.
Computer usage is for the most part first-come, first-serve although reservations may be made in advance. There is a 3 hour limit of usage per day as availability allows. Initial reservation will be for 1 hour if available, with extensions granted when there are no waiting patrons.
To sign on, use the 14 digit card number found on the backside of card under bar code along with the PIN (personal identification number) selected and assigned when card was obtained or internet permission was granted.
Upon signon, ACPL Computer Usage Rules will be displayed. Please read and accept to continue. You are expected to abide by all the rules and may request a printed copy from Library personnel. Breaking any of the rules could result in permanent banning from the Library. Check with Library personnel with any questions.
Click on the Start button or the Windows icon button located on the keypad near the space bar. At this point, you may select your browser for internet usage or make a selection of other offline options such as Microsoft Office by selecting the All Programs option on the menu screen.
Once browser selected, you will begin your internet session with the ACPL Library homepage from whence you may begin your session.
NOTE: ACPL does not allow for any storage of information on computers in the library. In order to save your resume, cover letter, scanned document, etc., you will need a type of removable storage device for storage and retrieval of your personal data. If you do not own such a device, check at Reference Desk for availability and to check out a flash drive for temporary use during your current computer session.
Internet Browsers
A Web browser is a program used to access the World Wide Wed (www). It intreprets HTML code (computer language) including text, images, hypertext links, Javascript, and Java applets. After reading that code, it displays the formatted web pages you view. Some of the most popular browsers are:
Internet Explorer
Mozilla Firefox
Google Chrome
Safari
Internet
The internet is a massive network of networks, a networking infrastructure. It connects millions of computers together globally, forming a network in which any computer can communicate with any other computer as long as they are both connected to the internet. Information that travels over the internet does so via a language known as protocols.
World Wide Web
The World Wide Web (aka, the Web) is a way of accessing information over the internet. It is an information-sharing model that is built on top of the internet. The Web uses the HTTP protocol, one of the languages spoken over the internet, to transmit data. Web services, which use HTTP to allow applications to communicate in order to exchange business logic, use the Web to share information. The web also uses browsers to access web documents (called web pages) that are linked to each other via hyperlinks. The World Wide Web is just one of the ways that information can be shared over the internet.
Alamance County Public Libraries provide free and open access to lifelong learning, resources for everyday living, and reading for pleasure in a welcoming environment. Our collections, services and programs enhance the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities. Contact the Library webmaster.
Alamance County Public Libraries operates as a Department of Alamance County Government. Visit the Alamance County Website at www.alamance-nc.com.
Great tutorials from Goodwill Community Foundation
