Wireless Access

Is wireless available at all six branches?

Yes, wireless access is currently available at all 6 Heartland Library Cooperative locations.

What is wireless?

Wireless Internet access uses radio frequency signals to exchange information between your computer and the Internet. No cables are required.

Why wireless?

Wireless allows library users to bring their own computers to the library and to get Internet access. Library users can use their wireless laptop computers or PDAs to get Internet access in most areas of the Library. You are not limited to the normal computer areas of the library.

How do I use wireless at the library?

The Heartland Library Cooperative uses the WiFi standard (also known as 802.11b). Speed will vary by location and number of users. You will need to bring your own laptop computer to the library and it will need to have built-in WiFi or you will need to install a WiFi network card. The Library does not provide wireless cards. Most WiFi equipment will be compatible. However, the library can make no guarantees as to compatibility of your equipment with the library’s network. Printers are not available to wireless users in the library. Please have your battery charged. Because of safety & liability concerns, electrical access is NOT provided. You may NOT plug your device into a library outlet.

Will I need any special settings to connect?

No, the library’s patron wireless network is open to all patrons and no special wireless settings are used.

Since I’m using my own equipment, do the general rules about computer use still apply to me?

Yes – you still cannot disrupt other patrons as described in the Heartland Library Cooperative Internet Policy. Any activities deemed illegal apply to you whether or not you are on a Library-owned computer or your own computer. Furthermore, security hardware and software will disconnect you temporarily or permanently from the entire wireless network if you attempt to circumvent standard procedures and protocols, or attempt to access or manipulate equipment to which you are not authorized to connect. Any illegal activity will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Please keep in mind that you are accessing the Internet via the library network and that traffic is filtered and monitored to ensure network functionality and to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Can the library help me configure my computer?

No – everyone’s computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. The library cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer’s settings.

If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the manufacturers of your hardware or software.

What about virus protection and security?

It is solely the responsibility of the wireless device owner/user to provide anti-virus protection, and to configure their laptop/PDA settings to provide the appropriate security settings to control access from other wireless devices within the Library and the Internet itself. The Heartland Library Cooperative cannot and will not take responsibility for damages incurred for incorrect, insufficient or incomplete security settings; or lack of adequate or up-to-date virus protection. Wireless users assume all risks in
this regard.

Is my information safe while using wireless?

Your information is not protected while using wireless, unless you are connected to a web page that employs encryption (stores, banks, etc.). Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive
business or personal information. The library cannot guarantee that the service will be available at any specific time or the connection will have any specific quality or speed.

Hours of Operation

Wireless access is available all hours the library is open.