Current Size: 100%
Locations & Hours
For Children
Computers & Technology
| Computer Lab on the 2nd floor
|
Public Use Computers
PCs with MS Windows XP Professional. Your library card provides one hour of free access per day. Adults and students in 8th grade and above may use computers on the second (top) floor; younger students and children may use computers in the Children's Room.
- web browsing with Internet Explorer and Mozilla FireFox
- Chinese language pack for viewing Chinese characters Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, and PowerPoint
- InterVideo WinDVD for watching DVDs
- Windows Media Player for listening to CDs
- QuickTime Player for viewing streaming media online
- Picasa2 for viewing and editing digital photos
- upgraded Kurzweil on Adaptive Technology Room computers
- Windows XP games
- ability to download programs
- ability to use headphones (bring your own or purchase ear buds at the library)
- ability to save data to CD or flash drive
Adaptive Technology Room
A private room with two computers for users who need assistive technology, including people with disabilities and library literacy tutors. Call 617-376-1316 or ask at the Main Library Reference Desk for more information or to make a reservation.
- text magnification software
- Kurzweil 1000 software that converts the printed word into speech
- Staff assistance available upon pre-arrangement
- Reservations mayn be made up to a month in advance
Internet Access for Portable Computers
Wired Internet connections for portable computers, such as notebooks and handhelds, are located in the study carrels in the first floor circulation area and in the study carrels and tables in the second floor reference area. Free WiFi is available in most areas of the Main Library, including the Richardson building. See our Wireless Internet User's Guide for more information about the library's wireless service.
Computer Classes & Online Tutorials
Computer classes on a variety of topics are offered in the Computer Lab on an ongoing basis. Participate in a hands-on Microsoft Office introductory class and get started with word processing (Word), designing flyers and newsletters (Publisher), creating slideshows (PowerPoint), or using spreadsheets (Excel). Explore Internet-based computer applications at classes like Editing Digital Photos, Google Apps, and Facebook 101.
Computer class offerings vary each month. All classes are free, but space is very limited, so registration is required. Check our calendar of events or subscribe to our monthly e-mail newsletter to find out about upcoming classes.
All classes require some previous experience using the mouse and keyboard. If you do not have mouse/keyboard experience, call 617-376-1316 to arrange for a one-on-one tutorial, or try one of the following online practice tutorials:
Mouse Exercises
Some simple exercises to help you get acquainted with the mouse.Mousing Around
This tutorial will help you learn to use a mouse to interact with a computer.Connect-the-Dots
A fun way to practice your mousing skills!Surf the Web
Includes Web-at-a-Glance, which introduces Web basics in a 10-minute tutorial.In Pictures
Free computer tutorials based on pictures, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Publisher, Access), OpenOffice, Dreamweaver, PhotoShop, and more.