Computers and Equipment
All of our locations offer free access to computers you can use to search our online resources, connect to the internet and use popular software, like Microsoft Office. At some branches, you can use your Library card to borrow a laptop or use one of our printers, copiers or fax machines.
Reserve a Computer
Use your Library card to reserve a computer for up to 2 hours per day. We also have job search computers you can use for an additional two hours per day at the Central Library. All branches have computers you can use to search our catalog and databases for as long as you like. 15 minute Internet Express computers cannot be reserved.
No card? Request a guest pass for one 30-minute session. Visitors to Seattle and non-residents can buy a temporary Library card. Find out how to get a Library card.
Print, Copy & Scan
All Library locations offer a limited number of free printed pages. Patrons can print 10 free black and white pages each week, or three free color pages. Patrons can print additional pages for a cost of $.15 per page for black and white or $.50 for color. Scanning is free. Some Library locations now also have self service ScanEZ kiosks for high speed scanning of documents and photos and text-to-audio scanning.
Fax
Faxes may only be sent to fax numbers in the United States, and we are not able to receive faxes for patrons. If you need help sending a fax, please Ask Us.
Internet Access and FlexTech
Wireless Internet Access
We provide free wireless internet access during open hours to anyone with a Wi-Fi-enabled laptop or mobile device at all locations. Just connect your laptop, tablet, or smartphone to our wireless network spl-public We ask that you avoid disturbing other patrons and wear headphones when you play audio or video. Please keep your viewing and browsing private by positioning the screen so that others cannot easily see it. If you need to make a phone call, do so in an area where you will not disturb others.
FlexTech Laptops
Some branches have laptops you can borrow while you are in the branch, so you can access the internet and our online resources from anywhere inside the building.
FlexTech Magazine and Newspaper Tablet Readers
Some branches have tablet readers you can borrow to access digital magazine and newspaper resources while you are in the branch. Each tablet includes pre-installed apps to access the Library's digital magazine and newspaper resources through Flipster, PressReader, and New York Times Digital.
FlexTech: Laptops FlexTech: Tablet Readers Find Flextech Locations
SPL HotSpot
You can use your Library card to check out and take home an easy-to-use Wi-Fi HotSpot. You can connect up to 15 laptops, tablets, or other devices to the internet for free from anywhere with cellular coverage. You can reserve a HotSpot like you would any other item in our catalog and pick it up at your neighborhood branch.
Adaptive Equipment
We have helpful tools available to use in your Library at no charge to make it easier for people with vision, hearing and mobility impairments to use computers.
All open locations offer:
- Screen enlarging software (ZoomText)
- Screen magnifying software (XP Magnifier)
- Screen reading software (JAWS)
- An accessibility kit with a variety of magnifiers and writing guides to use in the Library
Some branches and the Central Library offer additional support, including ADA-accessible computers.