Computers for Public Use
Yes! All library locations offer free public computers and free Wifi. Our computer reservation system will assign you the next available computer for same-day use, or you can reserve a session up to 7 days in advance.
Reservations
- An Arlington library card is required for computer use
- Visitors not eligible for a library card can be issued a 90-day computer card at the library
- All reservations must be made in-person at the library
- You may only have one session or reservation at a time, per day
Time Limits
- Session lengths are 30 minutes or 60 minutes
- Usage is limited to 120 minutes per person, per day, per location
- A missed reservation counts toward the 120 minute limit
Hardware & Software
- All computers have USB ports, CD-RW/DVD drive, and 2 headphone jacks. You may purchase earbud-style headphones from the library for $1.00
- All computers have Internet access via Internet Explorer and Firefox browsers, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and Microsoft Word, Excel, andPowerPoint
External Storage Devices
- You may save to CD, or USB memory stick
- You may purchase a CD-R disk from the library for $.50, or a USB memory stick for $5.00
Printing
- Black-and-white laser printing is available at $.15 per page; prints from the Library catalog and research databases at $.05 cents per page
- Color printing is only available for children using the computers in the Youth area at Central Library, at $1.00 per page
- Payment must be made in cash
Staff Assistance
- Assistance from a volunteer coach is available during select times at Central Library and Columbia Pike
- Library Staff can help start programs and access the Internet, but cannot provide tutoring or hands-on assistance
Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities
- All computers have Magnifier software as part of the Windows operating system (Start > Programs > Accessories > Accessibility)
- Central Library and the Columbia Pike Branch each have one workstation equipped with screen reader software, ZoomText magnifying software, a larger monitor, and adjustable table height to allow wheelchair access. Qualified users can reserve these workstations in advance by calling 703-228-6340 (Central) or 703-228-5710 (Columbia Pike)