People's Network in Sunderland Libraries

The People's Network is a project which has connected all public libraries to the Internet as part of the Government's commitment to give everyone in the UK the opportunity to get on line.  

Lottery funded by the New Opportunities Fund and managed by  
Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) more than 4000 library centres have been created through the initiative.  City of Sunderland libraries have been able to extend and improve their network of public access computers as a result of the People's Network.

WHAT CAN I USE THE COMPUTERS FOR? 

• To support access to lifelong learning opportunities
• To provide access to Microsoft Off ice applications and desktop publishing
• To send and receive e-mails
• To find a range of up to date high quality information
• To scan and print items

WHO CAN USE THE COMPUTERS AND INTERNET?

Anyone - you just have to be a library member.  It is easy to join the library - you only need to provide two forms of identification showing both name and address.  If customers under 16 want to use the Internet they need to have an Internet Disclaimer Form signed by a holder of parental responsibility.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

All use of computers is free including Internet access.  Charges are made for printing and floppy disks are available for purchase at the displayed cost.  Children who are members of a Homework Club receive free printing during Homework Club sessions.

HOW LONG CAN I USE A COMPUTER?

Sessions are for one hour although you can use a computer for a maximum of two hours if it is not required by another customer.  After this it is recommended for Health and Safety reasons that a break is taken.  

CAN I BOOK A COMPUTER IN ADVANCE?

Computers can be booked with library staff before use, either in advance or at the time of use, in person or by telephone or email.  City Library users can book using the computer booking system.  This allows you to book a machine either the same day or up to seven days in advance.

WILL YOU TRAIN ME TO USE A COMPUTER?

We don't offer formal training in using computers and the Internet, however we can advise you on where you can receive training - often in a library based Learning Centre.  Library staff can however provide you with basic advice, support and guidance on using a pc and the Internet.

CAN I DOWNLOAD AND SAVE INFORMATION?

Yes but our policy is that you can only save information onto a floppy disk.  You can buy floppy disks in the library if you need one.

CAN I SHOP OVER THE INTERNET?

We do allow financial transactions using the  Internet but City of Sunderland Libraries will not be held responsible for any losses or problems that may occur.

DO YOU PROTECT AGAINST COMPUTER VIRUSES?

Yes - all the computers have anti-virus software that is regularly updated.  

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY 

The use of public access computers is controlled by an Acceptable Use Policy  ( pdf 64k)  A copy of this is displayed next to machines in all libraries.  It is intended to provide customers with guidelines for use of computer workstations.  Persistent misuse of public workstations by a customer can lead to a three month ban.