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 or iPad. 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
FlexTech is temporarily unavailable. We are working to resolve this issue. Thank you for your patience.
Some branches have laptops and tablets you can borrow while you are in the branch, so you can access the internet and our online resources from anywhere inside the building. See which branches have FlexTech: Laptops and FlexTech: Tablets.
Print, Copy, Scan & Fax
For a small fee, you can print to our printers, make photocopies or send a fax. 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.
Printing and photocopy fees
| 8.5”x11” or 8.5"x14” | Single-sided | Black and white | $.15 |
| Double-sided | Black and white | $.30 | |
| Single-sided | Color | $.50 | |
| Double-sided | Color | $1 | |
| 11”x 17” | Single-sided | Black and white | $.30 |
| Double-sided | Black and white | $.60 | |
| Single-sided | Color | $1 | |
| Double-sided | Color | $2 |
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. Fax services are available at Beacon Hill, Columbia, Delridge, High Point, NewHolly, Rainier Beach and South Park branches. If you need help sending a fax, please Ask Us.
Scanning services at the Central Library
Multifunction machines for scanning are available for public use on Levels 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10. A USB flash drive is required to save your scans.
Scanning workstations
We have two scanning workstations with 8 ½” x 14” scanners that have film/negative scanning capability on Level 5 Mixing Chamber at the Central Library. You can use them for online faxing and scanning for up to 30 minutes per session.
BookScan stations
We have two BookScan stations available for public use on Levels 9 and 10 at the Central Library. Features include scanning to a USB flash drive, translation services (60 languages) and scanning text to audio.
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
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. Learn more about using Wi-Fi.
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.
Personal Devices
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.
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 branches 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.
If you have a question or need help, Ask Us or call 206-386-4636.