Computers, the internet and WiFi in Libraries

We offer free internet access in every library in Newcastle. To use a library computer you will need your login number and password. If you're not already a library member, you can join for free. 

Using library computers:

Public PCs at Newcastle Libraries

We provide free access to the internet in all our libraries. All users of the PCs must agree to abide by our Acceptable Use Policy. You can also use some programmes to help you apply for jobs, scan documents or catch up with social media:

• Microsoft Office on our PCs including Word and Excel
• Free access to Ancestry.com Library Edition
• flat-bed scanners to digitise pictures and text, and a black and white printer and most libraries have a colour printer as well

How do I book?

Booking is currently unavailable as it is drop-in access only.

How much time do I have?

You can use library computers for a maximum of 3 hour per day, depending on availability. 

What happens during the session?

To start your session, you will need your library card number and PIN. 

• You can print from any computer for a small charge, just follow the instructions on screen
• We recommend that you save your work to an external memory card or your own cloud storage. You may save work to ‘My Documents’ or ‘desktop’ of the local drive, however, if there is network disruption during your session you may lose saved work
• You will receive a prompt  15 minutes, 10 minutes and 5 minutes before your session ends
• At the end of your session, the PC will time out automatically. Remember to log out if you want to leave before your session ends by clicking 'Log off PC' on the desktop

How much is printing?

You can view the printing and other costs on our Library charges page.

Where is my login and pin?

If you do not know your login number and PIN, please contact a member of staff at your local library.

Where Can I get Help & Support?

Do you want to use a computer but don't know where to start? We can help you learn the basics - how to use a PC to access and use the internet.

Getting stuck with your smartphone? We can help you get the most out of your personal device. 

There are regular one-to-one taster sessions held at our libraries where a member of staff will sit down with you and go through everything step by step at a pace to suit you. To find out more see our Get Online Newcastle webpage, phone 0191 277 4100 or email information@newcastle.gov.uk.

Try one of our online courses - a one to one IT taster session, or a more informal 'Techy Tea Party', or a 'Learn My Way' Online basics course

To book a place, just visit the Newcastle Libraries Events webpage.  You will be asked for an email address to book your place, but don’t worry, if you don’t have one just use getonline@newcastle.gov.uk. Your ticket will be emailed to us and we will post it out to you.

Can I use Wi-Fi? 

Did you know you can access a wireless network at over 50 public buildings across the city, including all Newcastle libraries?  To use the Wi-Fi on your mobile device select the network ‘Newcastle-Public’ and follow the on-screen steps. 

What if I have Accessibility issues?

You can use the Accessibility settings on the desktop  to enable screen readers, change font size, change the contrast and navigate by using a keyboard

Quick Guide:

• You can use any public PC for up to 3 hours. There are a limited number of scanners - if you don't need a scanner, please choose a PC which doesn't have a scanner attached.
• Once logged in, you can use the library catalogue, online resources and the internet by clicking on an icon on the desktop.
• Keep an eye on your session's remaining time.
• Sometimes you may be able to extend your time on a PC. Ask a member of staff, but we can only agree if there is no-one waiting to use a PC.
• Make sure you sign out when you're finished - you can do this by clicking on the 'Log off PC' icon on the desktop.