WiFi update

WiFi is now available at Ringwood, Croydon & Healesville libraries.

There is no charge for the service but people need to be aware that they need to be a member of the library to use it. Those members who already know their PIN can log on straight away otherwise all they need to do is ask a friendly staff member for help in getting a PIN set up. For those people who don't wish to become full members of the library they will be able to apply for a special WiFi/Internet Membership  that will give them instant access.

Cheers, Maryanne

WiFi is here...there...and everywhere

If you're looking for free and easy WiFi access to the Internet you need go no further than your local public library. Eastern Regional Libraries were the recent recipients of a State Government grant that has allowed us to install WiFi equipment at all of our branches. At the moment the WiFi rollout has taken place at the Knox, Ferntree Gully, Rowville, Boronia, Mt Evelyn and Lilydale libraries with Ringwood and Croydon soon to follow.

Margaret Hall, the IT Manager for ERL, said

"We are very excited that we are able  to offer this enhanced service to our members. It means that students can log on quickly and easily to the Internet through their laptops. We expect to have all of the branches throughout the region up and running with WiFi by the beginning of December".

There is no charge for the service but people need to be aware that they need to be a member of the library to use it. Those members who already know their PIN can log on straight away otherwise all they need to do is ask a friendly staff member for help in getting a PIN set up. For those people who don't wish to become full members of the library they will be able to apply for a special WiFi/Internet Membership  that will give them instant access.

Cheers, Maryanne

New WiFi & Internet application form

We frequently have visitors to our libraries who just want to access the Internet or WiFi hotspot but aren't necessarily wanting to borrow from our libraries. So we have created a new type of membership. It's creatively called WiFi/Internet membership. You'll be able to join up to the new WiFi & Internet membership from Monday 9th November.

A few things you need to know:

• You don't need to join up again if you already have an Eastern Regional Libraries membership card.
• The membership will expire after 12 months. Once it expires just see staff and they will renew your membership again.
• You can always have your card activated so that you can borrow books if you choose.
• You'll need a parent/guardian to sign for you if you're under 18 years.
• You'll need to show identification to join (e.g. licence)
• You'll also get access to our online resources
  

At present we'll get people to join up in person at the branches.

Cheers, Maryanne

The latest news on WiFi, new PCs & Internet membership

Lots of things happening in IT at the moment, especially in November.

WiFi in November & December

The WiFi testing at Knox has been going well. Electrical work & furniture additions are happening in our Knox & Maroondah branches, as well as Lilydale. We are looking at the implementation of WiFi hotspots at Boronia, Ferntree Gully, Rowville, Croydon, Ringwood and Lilydale libraries in November. The other Yarra Ranges branches look to be getting WiFi access in December.

What do you need to access WiFi? Firstly you'll need a device with a wireless network adapter like a laptop, PDA or phone. Secondly you'll need your library card number starting 20023 and PIN (library staff will be able to look this up if you don't know).

New PCs in November

Also in November, 45 new PCs will be rolled out to our Knox branches, courtesy of a grant obtained by Knox City Council.

The PCs have arrived and are sitting behind me ready to be imaged.

Internet Membership available in November

A new Internet membership is going to be promoted and available in November. This membership is for WiFi, Internet and travelers who only want to access the PCs or WiFi network. There will be no loan rights for these cards and they will be valid for 12 months. They can be upgraded to an ordinary member with borrowing rights at any time if needed. We'll be advertising this soon.

Cheers, Maryanne