Library computers, Wi-Fi and printing

Our library computers are completely free to use for library members, for up to four hours per day.

You could use our computers to:

• Browse the internet
• Create a CV, letters, spreadsheets, databases and presentations using Microsoft Office
• Search for jobs and complete application forms
• Apply for benefits and local authority housing
• Connect to a range of Digital Library resources

To use the computers you will need your Southampton library card and PIN. If you are an existing member and do not have either of these, you will need to provide identification when you visit your local library. If you are not a member you can join the library.

Visitors to the city wishing to use the computers can apply for a temporary membership. This is valid for three months. Ask staff in the library you are visiting for details.

Please note public access computers turn off automatically 15 minutes before library closure. Please see our terms and conditions for computer use in libraries.

Printing, photocopying, and scanning facilities are available at most libraries. Charges apply.

Users are also able to print directly from their devices using KUARIO Print. This process is simplest using the mobile app available from the Google Play Store and iOS App Store. 

You are able to print from a mobile device in our libraries with or without registering for an account with KURAIO.

For more information or help using our printing, scanning or photocopying services, please speak to a member of staff.

In Central, Bitterne, Lordshill, Portswood, Shirley and Woolston libraries, users can connect to the SCC-Guest network and will be prompted to accept the terms and conditions in order to use the service.

In Burgess and Cobbett libraries, the network connection is The Cloud. The first time you try to connect you will be prompted to set-up an account.

In both Central Library and our Business & IP Centre, users can borrow tablet computers known as Hublets. These devices are completely free to use for library members, for up to two hours per day, and can only be used within the library. They are preloaded with useful applications and Digital Library resources.

To borrow a Hublet you will need your Southampton library card and PIN. If you are an existing member and do not have either of these, you will need to provide identification when you visit your local library. If you are not a member you can join the library.

If you need help using these services our staff are on hand to help. However the support they can offer will depend on the resources available at that time.

We will offer assistance whenever possible with:

• Logging onto our computers and Wi-Fi
• Simple printing, scanning and photocopying
• Navigating and signposting to a particular website or online form
• Detailing what can and cannot be done on our library computers

On occassions staff may be able to provide more support than that listed above. This is at the discretion of the library staff. Our libraries offer additional help on learning how to use computers and technology via Digital Champions.