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Frequently Asked Questions
Computer and Internet Access
Related library policies:
Does the library provide computers and Internet access?
Yes, the library provides access to the Internet and staff members are available to assist you with logging on and basic search techniques. Computers are also available for using Microsoft Office 2007 software (Word, Excel, Publisher and PowerPoint). All public computer/Internet users must read and agree to abide by the library's Internet policy, which is available for review at the reference desk. The library also offers free wireless access to users who have their own laptops.
May I reserve a computer in advance?
The library allows patrons to use computers on a first come, first served basis. The library uses PC time-management software that allows for users to sign up for the next available computer.
Is there a time limit for use of library computers?
Use of library computers is on a first come, first served basis and may be used up to 90 minutes per day. Sessions are allotted in three (3) 30-minute sessions. Wireless Internet access is unlimited.
I need to fill out an online job application. It may take longer than your time limits allows.
Please note that some job application sites do not allow you to set up an account and/or edit, finish your application at a later time. If you are in the middle of filling out an online application and notice your time is about to expire, please speak with the reference staff
about extending your time limit so that you can complete the application.
May I download a file from the Internet/my e-mail?
Library computers are networked and downloads to the local/hard drive are prohibited. Patrons may not tamper with or reconfigure computer equipment, software or data belonging to the library. If someone has sent you an attachment that can be opened in software supported by the library (Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, Adobe Reader), you can open the document and then save the file (if desired) to a USB storage device or a 3.5" floppy disk. Here are the steps to take if you need to open/save an attachment sent to you via e-mail:
- Open the e-mail attachment;
- A file download dialog box will pop up asking you whether you want to Open, Save or Cancel. Choose to Open the file. If Open is not an option (is greyed out), then you will not be able to open the document;
- Depending on the type of attachment (i.e., *.doc), the supporting program (i.e., Word) will open and you can view the attachment;
- If you want to save the attachment, go to File > Save As;
- Click on My Computer and select the external drive (A for floppy, usually E for USB storage device) as the destination. If you attempt to save to the local disk (C), you will be blocked from doing so.
What if I need to save a file?
Patrons may use their own preformatted 3.5” disks (when disk drives are available) or portable Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices to save files. The library recommends patrons use a portable Universal Serial Bus (USB) device over preformatted 3.5” disks. The library is not responsible for the storage device(s) or for the correct saving of files and cannot guarantee that the library’s computer workstations will be able to read/recognize the device or the data.
Please note that you will need to go to File > Save As and choose the destination, in this case the A drive for a floppy; E for a USB. If you attempt to save to the local disk (C), you will be blocked from doing so.
How do I open a file that I have saved on a disk/portable Universal Serial Bus (USB) device?
The file(s) in question must be in a format that is readable by library-supported software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Notepad or Internet Explorer).
- Insert your floppy disk or USB device;
- Click on the Start Menu;
- Choose/select the program with which you created the file (i.e., if the file ends with “.xls” or “.xlsx,” select Microsoft Excel);
- From the File menu, select Open;
- If you click on the C drive, you will be blocked; click on the drive/storage device that contains the file (A for floppy, E for USB);
- Select the file you need to access;
Do I need a library card to use the computers?
Patrons must present a Fauquier County Library Card to use the public access computers. Patrons not eligible for a Fauquier County Library Card will be issued a single-use guest pass provided that photo identification is presented.
Is there a charge for printing?
There is a charge of 10 cents per page (cash only) for printing from the Internet or other electronic resources. You cannot print using wireless Internet access. Photocopiers are available for making copies from print resources at 15 cents per page.
Does the library filter access to the Internet?
In accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the library has installed filters on all public access computers and the public wireless network. Patrons who are 18 or over or who have a signed Internet registration card on file may ask to have Web sites that are being used for bona fide research or other lawful purposes allowed through the filter. Requested sites must not violate state law or library policy.
May children use the computers not located in the children's areas?
Yes, children may use any public access computer workstation. Limited age-appropriate access to the Internet is provided in the children's areas of the library.
I am not that comfortable using computers and/or the Internet. Will library staff assist me?
Library staff provides limited assistance for basic start-up procedures but cannot offer in-depth personal instruction in the use of a computer or software applications. Instructional materials and online tutorials are available to help with some software applications. Library staff members are also available to assist patrons with searches and can suggest search strategies. If you need basic instruction on how to use the Internet, see the schedule of free, short introductory classes on Internet searching that are regularly presented at the library.
Locally, computer courses are offered at Lord Fairfax Community College, Germanna Community College and the Culpeper Career Resource Center, which has satellite locations in Warrenton, Washington and Madison.
I need to create a resume and plan on using the library's word processing software to do so. How should I save my work?
You may use your own preformatted 3.5” disks or a portable Universal Serial Bus (USB) device to save your files. Files cannot be saved or copied to the library's computers.
Does the library keep a record of the Web sites I’ve visited?
By default, the Internet Explorer 7 Web browser keeps track of the most-recent websites you have visited. The library has configured Internet Explorer 7 to keep the history for zero (0) days and all temporary Internet files are purged when the Web browser is closed. In addition, after each session, any "favorites" or bookmarks are deleted.
May I connect my digital camera, mp3 player, iPod, cell phone, etc., to a library computer?
No - users may not alter or attach equipment/peripherals/hardware to the library's computers and only library-provided software may be used on the library's computers. Often the use of peripheral devices requires special software/drivers be installed. Software owned or supplied by users may not be installed or used on library computers.