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 even use your Library card to borrow a laptop. You can also use one of our printers, copiers or fax machines for a small fee.
Reserve a Computer
Use your Library card to reserve a computer for up to 90 minutes per day. We also have job search computers you can use for an additional two hours per day on Level 7 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.
Need access without a card? You can show photo ID to request a 30-minute guest pass if you don't qualify for a free Library card. Visitors to Seattle and non-residents can buy a temporary Library card. Find out how to get a Library card.
Need a private room with a computer for a video call or online meeting? The Central Library and several branches have rooms with equipment you can use. Find out more about meeting and study rooms and how to reserve one.
FlexTech
Use your Library card to borrow FlexTech devices for use in Library branches. Some branches have laptops and some branches have graphing calculators that you can use while in the Library.
We also have headphones and various cables and connectors you can use at most locations.
Print, Copy & Scan
For a small fee, you can print or make photocopies. Scanning is free. We accept cash at any branch.
All of our locations have multifunction machines you can use to print, copy and scan or you can request that we copy a few pages from a book or print publication in our collection with our photocopy request form.
You can find our printing and copying fees and instructions on our printing page.
Fax
Fax service fees (at some branches)
| First page | $1 |
| Each additional page | $.50 |
| Fax cover sheet | free |
Faxes may only be sent to fax numbers in the United States, and we are not able to receive faxes for patrons.
Microfilm readers
We have four microfilm reader machines available for you to use on Level 9 at the Central Library. We have historic documents and publications available for you to read in this format, and you can request microfilm items from other libraries through Interlibrary Loan.
Internet Access
You are welcome to use your laptop or mobile device at your Library. 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.
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. Like any public wireless network, our Wi-Fi service is not secure. Be aware of the risks and avoid sending sensitive information through the network.
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 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.