Free Internet Access
We offer FREE internet access in every library in Newcastle through our People's Network computers. City Library also has free wifi available.
To use our People's Network computers you will need your library ticket. You will also need to know your login number and password. If you're not already a library member, you can join for free.
We now have access to the Library Edition of Ancestry through our People's Network computers at every library.
- What is the People's Network?
- How much time do I have?
- What is my login number and PIN?
- How do I book?
- About your session
- How much is printing?
- How do I join the library?
- Making the People's Network accessible
- Internet and email factsheets
What is the People's Network?
- The People’s Network is a project that connects all public libraries to the internet.
- It's lottery funded and Newcastle’s grant was £587,000.
- We've used it to install 266 computers providing free access to the internet in all our libraries.
- All our computers have Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Access and Publisher.
- All our computers link to Ancestry.com Library Edition through a shortcut on the desktop.
- We also have flat bed scanners to digitise pictures and text.
- All libraries have a black and white printer and most have a colour printer as well.
- All users of the People's Network must agree to abide by our Acceptable Use Policy. This is displayed before you log on to the PC and you can read it here: Acceptable Use Policy (opens in new window).
How much time do I have?
- You can use the computers for a maximum of 2 hours per day and
- you can log on to the computers up to 8 times in one day, depending on availability.
- If a computer is available to use immediately, then the maximum time available will show on the screen.
- You can also make a booking to use a computer in advance.
- We have Quick Surf PCs which are only available for 15 minute sessions at these service points:
How do I book?
- You will need your login number and PIN to book a session.
- You can book a session yourself by using our "SignUp" stations.
- You can also ask a member of staff in person or by phone to book a session for you.
When you book a session you must select:
- where you want to use a computer, (the name of the library or section in City Library)
- the date and time you want to use it and
- the length of the session.
When it's time for your session the computer you've booked will display your login number.
Remember, you must arrive within 10 minutes of the starting time, or you will lose your booking.
About your session
- To start your session, you will need your login number and PIN.
- You will then be asked to agree to our Acceptable Use Policy.
- You can print from any computer for a small charge, just follow the instructions on screen.
- At the end of your session, the PC will time out automatically.
- You will receive a prompt 10 minutes and 2 minutes before your session ends.
- Remember to log out if you want to leave before your session ends automatically.
How much is printing?
Black and white: 15p per sheet (A3 and A4)
Colour: 20p per sheet (A3 and A4)
Children are allowed up to 5 copies for homework purposes free of charge.
Making the People's Network accessible
Not all the equipment listed below is available at every library. For more information or to book any items please ask a member of staff.
Height Adjustable Desks
We have some computers on height adjustable desks that can be quickly raised or lowered using a winding handle on the side.
Big Keys Keyboard and Keyguard Overlay
This keyboard has a large simple layout that is easy to see, read and press. The keys are 4 times normal size and the black lettering is 10 times as big as on a standard keyboard. It can also be used with a Keyguard Overlay. This has rounded holes to guide fingers to the correct keys whilst providing support to rest of the hand.
Trackball
Trackballs are useful for people who find a mouse difficult or painful to use. The case acts as a hand-rest and can be used comfortably by adults or children, whether they are left or right-handed. It also has a drag-lock feature to make it easier to highlight, select or drag an item.
Supernova
Magnifying and reading software for use with Windows applications, the internet and email. It recognises and reads text and graphics including icons, buttons and menus. It can magnify the computer display up to 32 times in a choice of styles. It can also control colour, contrast and brightness to suit individual needs. Supernova is fitted as standard on all our People’s Network computers.
Login number and PIN
If you do not know your login number and PIN, please contact a member of staff at your local library.
Internet and email fact sheets
The following guides will help you with the basics of getting online. If you need more help please contact us to arrange a free one to one internet taster session.
Taster guide to the internet. Download PDF
Taster guide to email. Download PDF
Taster guide to social networks and Web2.0. Download PDF
Taster guide to online shopping. Download PDF
You will need Adobe PDF Reader installed to view these files. It can be downloaded here free of charge.