Libraries for life

Computers are available at all Medway libraries and are free to use. The library service has introduced a new information technology (IT) system that offers: a new online catalogue with pictures, descriptions and text excerpts; the ability to build a list of favourites, rate and review books, films and music and manage your account; lists of stock and special sections in the catalogue for children's and sound and vision items; in the near future, the ability to build a profile of your reading habits and receive email alerts when new stock arrives and matches your lists; the chance for family and friends to join online and order stock for when they visit the library to confirm their membership; the introduction of a new customer personal computer (PC) booking system; the rebuilding of all public access PCs and the installation of new PCs at Gillingham, Strood and Chatham libraries; the installation of new multi-functional printer/copiers that are more environmentally friendly and help manage printing more efficiently.

These improvements are all part of a continuing project to improve IT in Medway libraries and offer a huge potential for future developments for the library service.

Please note: Although it is free to use the computers in libraries and to access the internet, there are printing costs.

Express computers

Medway Libraries express computers give you 15 minutes to access the internet and email; perfect if you just want to call in to check your email or look at a website. The following libraries have an express computer:

You do not have to be a library member to use an express computer. There is no need to book in advance, just drop in. It is free to use the computers and access the internet in Medway libraries.

If you are new to computers

Medway Libraries regularly runs sessions for people who would like to find out more about using computers. As these sessions are only for an hour, you will need some computer skills in order to make the most of them. New to computers sessions are ideal if you want to know how to:

Medway Adult and Community Learning Service offers computing courses at the majority of libraries.

It's free to come to any of these sessions. As places are limited, you will need to book in advance. They take place in Medway libraries as follows:

Other courses being run by Medway Adult and Community Learning Service on offer over the next few months are detailed below. For more information or to enrol, please phone 01634 338400 or call into the Rochester  or Gillingham centre.

Children and young people

Children and young people are welcome to use computers and the internet in Medway libraries, contact your local library for details or call Chatham library on the number below.

Searching the internet

When you browse the internet, remember that it is unregulated. Sites can be out of date, inaccurate, offensive or even illegal. Computer users need to take responsibility for what they find. See Medway's internet user policy. Medway libraries' staff can help find what you want, avoiding what you don't need. Here are some useful sites:

• Medway libraries' catalogue;
• Reference materials online;
• Library links, a database of good websites to help you search, arranged by subject;
• Cityark, Medway Council’s online archives service.

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