In 1999-2000, the Kings County Library applied for and received grants from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The U.S. Library Program of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation works in partnership with public libraries to provide access to computers, the Internet and digital information for patrons in low-income communities in the United States. Through the generosity of the Gates Foundation, the Kings County Library received new personal computers (PCs) for the use of patrons in each branch library. The number of PCs received by each branch was determined by the Gates Foundation and was based on community population and other criteria. Since 2000, we have updated and replaced computer hardware and software at all Kings County branch libraries. We have also added additional PCs at all of our branches to meet the growing demand of our patrons.
Currently, all Kings County public computers have Windows 7 as the operating system and Microsoft Office 2010.
Scheduling
Patrons must have a library card and PIN number in their possession to utilize public computers. Patrons not having a library card can utilize the public computers by obtaining a one day guest pass through showing a valid photo ID. At all branch libraries, PC Reservation electronic computer reservation is used. Public access computers shut down 10 minutes before closing.
Downloading
Downloading files from the Internet is not permitted. Executables, whether from a personal memory device or online will not run on public library PCs. Additionally, patrons may not bring digital cameras and software to the library to download on public PCs.
Headphones
Headphones are available for patron use. Patrons may bring their own headphones for use as well.
Internet Access
The Kings County Library Internet policy was revised and adopted by the Board of Supervisors on November 4, 2008. Please read our revised policy regarding public internet use. Kings County Library is interested in the safety of our minor patrons. To that end, we have developed a policy on Internet Safety and Minors at the Library.
Printing
Printing is now available in all branch libraries. Patrons will be charged 25 cents per printed page for black & white ALL items printed. Color printing is available at Hanford, Lemoore, and Corcoran libraries for $1.00 per page. Printing is only available on standard letter-sized paper. We cannot print on legal size, envelopes, card stock, transparencies, or other non-standard materials.
Printing on the Internet
All libraries use LPTONE print management system. Patrons must read and follow the directions on the screen when printing. Printing is available in all branch libraries. Patrons will be charged 25 cents per printed black and white page and 1.00 for color page for ALL items printed. Printing is only available on standard letter-sized paper. We cannot print on legal size, envelopes, card stock, transparencies, or other non-standard materials.
Saving Files
Patrons are allowed to bring outside memory sticks for use on Library PCs. The library is not responsible for files that become corrupt, lost or damaged on such memory devices. Patrons are encouraged to know how to save their own material as staff can give limited assistance.
Time Limit
1 hour/day per person, enforced by PC Reservation electronic computer timing software (time used at one library will count at all other Kings County Library locations). A valid library card & four digit PIN Number is required to use the computers. Time may be extended at the discretion of library staff for up to 60 minutes with a maxiumum use of 2 hours per day.
