The Independence Public Library has 15 public access desktop computers and 5 laptop computers for public use.  Each of these computers has Internet access.  You can use the library's computers by logging in to our system with your library card number and password.  Patrons are not allowed to "borrow" somebody else's username and password and will be asked to log out and may lose privileges if doing so.  Please see a library staff person for help in logging in to a computer.  Patrons will automatically be given one hour of time to use a computer each day.  If the computers aren't busy or there aren't people waiting with a computer reservation, the time management system will automatically give you additional 30 minute segments up to a maximum of two hours.

Patrons who wish to use the library's computer equipment are required to have a valid library card.  All parents/guardians wishing that their children have access to the library's Internet connection must read and sign (in front of a library staff member in order to protect the rights of the guardian) a "Limitation of Liability" form supplied by the library before their child can use the library's Internet connection.

You may reserve a library computer through our online reservation program.  This is especially helpful if you are depending on using a computer at a certain day/time.

Library-Owned Laptops

There are a few specific guidelines for the library-owned laptops in addition to the normal guidelines for technology use.

• Users must be a minimum of 13 years of age.  Individuals from 13-17 must have an Independence Public Library Card and Services Application form signed by a parent or guardian.  This form implies consent to check out a library-owned laptop.
• Users check out laptops at the circulation desk and must leave an photo ID or library card at the desk while they use the laptop.
• Once a laptop is checked out to a patron, the laptop becomes the responsibility of that person.  The laptop should not be left unattended.  The borrowing patron is responsible for returning the laptop to the circulation desk for check in when they are finished.
• The borrower is responsible for replacement costs in the amount listed on the Fines and Fees Policy if the laptop is lost/stolen/damaged during his/her checkout period.

Personal Laptop Usage:

• Persons who bring their own portable computer may use the free wireless network after agreeing to the online user agreement as long as they have a valid library card.
• Ask for current password and brief directions for network access at the checkout desk.
• Library staff is able to provide only limited technical assistance.  Typically there aren't problems, but there is no guarantee that you will be able to make a wireless connection.
• Printing is available on the wireless network, but it is somewhat of an involved process to get your laptop set up to print.  Plan extra time to get your laptop configured to print.
• Use of the wireless network must conform to the acceptable use as outlined with other computers.  In addition to the specific guidelines, differences are:
• There is no time restriction when you are using your own notebook/laptop
• Your consent to the user agreement is done online before accessing the Internet rather than on the Independence Public Library Card and Services Application Form.

Early Literacy Computers
While in the library, children age 5 who have a library card and parental permission can use the library computers, with the exception of the early literacy computers.  The library has two early literacy computers that any child may use...just ask at the desk.  They are for children 2-8, have a touch-screen and special keyboard, and more than 50 educational programs for early learning!