Computers/WiFi

Your Rowan County Public Library is proud to offer laptop computers for in-house use by adult cardholders (over 18 years of age). There is a (2) hour time limit but it can be extended if needed.

If you don’t have a library card, you’ll need to request a guest pass at the front circulation desk. Guest passes are good for one (1) business day, so they’ll work for you until we close for the evening.

We ask that patrons practice common courtesy when using library computers. You may find that some websites containing sensitive, graphic, or explicit material are blocked; please try to avoid such sites while using our equipment and network. Failure to do so may result in a loss of computer privileges, so browse respectfully.

If you require printing services view our printing and copying services page

To access our free WiFi network, simply perform a network search on your device (or refresh your list of available networks) and select “RCPL Free WiFi” to connect. Once you're connected a splash screen should prompt you to accept our computer use policy so you can have access to our network.

Normal browsing activities are permitted on our wireless network, but the library cannot endorse online piracy, and torrenting is strictly prohibited. Patrons who consistently use an enormous amount of bandwidth or who are found to be employing torrent clients and similar programs may find their devices rejected by our network.

If you need help, please feel free to ask for technology assistance from any library staff member!

WiFi Hotspots

WiFi hotspots are available for checkout to adult patrons (over 18 years of age) with an account in good standing. A hotspot is a mobile WiFi device that connects to a network just like a cell phone, and provides wireless internet access to devices nearby. You can use them for your smartphone, tablet, laptop, game console, and more! You’ll need to have an appropriate agreement on file to borrow a hotspot; agreement forms are available upon request at our front circulation desk.

Because hotspots are so popular and are always in demand, we cannot keep these devices on the shelf for normal checkout; you’ll have to make a reservation and be waitlisted. When a hotspot becomes available for you, you’ll receive a notice, after which you’ll have three (3) days to pick up your device. RCPL loans hotspots for 14 days, and patrons are responsible for lost or damaged devices and cases. Overdue devices will be deactivated. Please make sure to return your hotspot on time at our front circulation desk or through our materials drop in the rear drive-through.

Disclaimer: Internet access provided through a WiFi hotspot is not filtered or monitored by your Rowan County Public Library. Patrons are liable for their own activities while using a hotspot device, and parents or guardians are responsible for providing appropriate supervision of internet usage by children or others with whom they may share access to any hotspot device on loan to their account.

Join us for Device Advice, our open-forum technology class. Questions regarding personal computers, devices, or any technology inquiries are welcome! Classes are free and open to the public—no registration required, just show up to a class!

Laptops are available for checkout; however, participants are encouraged to bring their own computers, tablets, smartphones, and so on in order to best address any specific questions that they may have regarding those devices.

Our technology staff are here to help! Stop by Monday through Friday from 10am to 3pm for questions or tech help.

Don't forget that you can also access our databases library for various resources to help you learn computer skills at home, completely free of charge!