The Library is pleased to make the Internet available as an important extension of its reference resources. Library members are welcome to sign up for a one-hour training session offered by our dedicated volunteers - come to the 2nd floor Reference Desk, or phone us at 905-372-9271, x 6210

There are also three (3) computers available in the YOUTH SERVICES AREA (1st floor). These have access to selected websites and educational game CD-Roms.

The library currently has 20 computers available for use. Seventeen (17) of them are on the 2nd floor by the Information Desk. There are five types of computers:

GATES (6 computers): Require a library membership. Access to the Internet, Word, and Excel.

POD (4 computers): Require a library membership. Access to the Internet, Word, and Excel.

CAP (3 computers): Do not require a library membership. Access to the Internet only. Intended for short-term use, i.e. checking email.

ACCESSIBILITY (1 computer). This station is reserved for patrons who require use of the specialty software installed, including: JAWS, ZoomText, Kurzweil1000, Kurzweil 3000, and Dragon Naturally Speaking.

LOCAL HISTORY (3 computers). Do not require a library membership. Access to genealogical research databases, including Ancestry Library Edition, and various research CD-Roms. Researchers can also access the CemSearch database, and our archival photo and newspaper index.

Wireless @ Your Library

The Cobourg Public Library has wireless access available for those who wish to bring their laptops or other wireless devices into the Library to work.

It is a great pleasure to see people sitting at a table or study carrel with their laptop using our wireless access.

This access is even available in our Meeting Room across the hall.

So, the next time you come to the Library, bring your laptop, PDA or other hand-held device. Our wireless is waiting for you.

Envisionware @ Your Library

Computers, computers, computers. A necessity. A distraction. A headache. A part of our culture.

The Cobourg Library was one of the first venues to offer free Public Internet Access in 1996. We had one lonely dial-up computer, a slow inkjet printer, and sessions were booked in hour time slots.

Over the years, the Library’s capacity for technology has grown, and we are now proud to offer 13 computers on the 2^nd floor with unrestricted access to the Internet, as well as 2 machines dedicated to genealogical Internet sites, and 1 for government-related Internet sites. There are also 3 stations in the Youth Services Department with access to selected Internet sites and educational CD Roms.

All of the machines on the second floor are connected to a LaserJet printer. In December 2006, thanks to the Cobourg & District Library Foundation, our Library was able to implement a PC booking and Print Control software program called Envisionware.

PC Reservation, allows patrons to log themselves into any available computer. The time remaining in their session is constantly on-screen. Patrons can book a computer up to three days in advance. There is a self-reservation station that is used for this, or to reserve the next available computer, if all the workstations are being used. A receipt is printed indicating the time of the reservation, the name of the computer, and the 4-digit confirmation number that will be needed to access the machine.

LPT:One is the name of the print-control software. With this program, patrons know before they print, the number of pages that will be printed, and the total cost. All print jobs are held in a queue on the Print Server, and will not printed until they are paid for. Attached to the Print Server is a Coin & Bill Acceptor that allows the patron to pay for the job, and gives change when necessary.

These two programs have given independence to our patrons, and have made the experience of using the computers similar to that of browsing our shelves. Staff intervention is required on occasion, but for the most part, patrons are able to come, use the computers, print off information, and leave on their own.

Of course, the Library does offer training on the Internet, Microsoft Word or Excel. We are lucky to have a group of dedicated volunteers that will guide you through a one-on-one hour session. Please call the Information Services Desk at 905-372-9271, ext. 6210 for more details.