Computers & Internet

Computers

The Library has five standard adult computers, one iMAC (available for a 2-hour time slot to users who are already proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud products such as Illustrator and Dream Weaver, etc. – lessons will not be given), a 15-minute express computer, and six children’s computers, including three pre-loaded AWE workstations available for public use. Patrons are allowed one session per day for 2 hours. We also have free Wi-Fi throughout the building and grounds. Chromebooks are available to borrow for 2-hour intervals by reservation at the Circulation Desk.

User Guidelines

The Hastings Public Library provides free public access to information and digital tools in a wide range of formats to meet its mission of providing informational, educational, and recreational materials to the community. For example, patrons can access databases provided by the Westchester Library System (WLS), use Microsoft Office, connect laptops using our wireless hub, and use the Internet.

WLS and the Village maintain the computers in the Library. The Library Board of Trustees has authorized the following policies and rules for using our public access computers:

The Library seeks to provide an atmosphere conducive to the best use of its resources and strives to balance the rights of patrons to access different types of information with the rights of fellow patrons, and staff, to work in a setting free from disruptive sounds and visuals.

In providing access to its electronic resources, the Library adheres to the American Library Association’s guidelines on access to information and does not place filters on its computers, including in the children’s area. In keeping with this practice, however, a librarian may ask patrons to refrain from accessing a site deemed objectionable. The patron may appeal the decision in writing to the Library Board of Trustees.

The computers should not be used to sell or purchase goods or information, as they are not secure for these purposes.

Patrons may not install, delete, or modify Library hardware or software or store data from the Internet onto a Library computer’s hard drive.

Daily use of the computers is monitored and maintained by WLS. Patrons need an active library card to log onto the computers and must use only that card. Under no circumstances may patrons use a library card issued to a different person. Patrons who are not eligible for a Westchester library card may request a guest pass which may be issued at the Library’s discretion.

The Library also provides printing capabilities for its computers. Patrons are requested to retrieve and pay for all the pages they have sent to the printer.