Computers, Internet & Wifi

The purpose of the Library's computer and internet services is to facilitate communication and support research, education, employment, personal business and recreational uses of digital content. 

All patrons using the Internet must have a valid Bentonville Public Library card. Users log in with their own library card number and default PIN, which is the last four digits of their primary telephone number. 

All users are required to comply with the Library's Technology Guidelines. Failure to do so will result in suspension and/or loss of the library privileges. BPL staff reserves the right to terminate a computer session if any activity is causing disruption of library services or if the behavior of the patron becomes inappropriate for a library setting.

Computer sessions are limited to 2 hours each day per library patron.  Available programs include Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office: Access, Excel, InfoPath, PowerPoint, Publisher and Word.  

BPL also offers laptops and iPads for use by patrons.

Temporary Internet Card

Non-residents visiting the area on a temporary basis may be issued a 3-month card to access the Library's public computers for up to 2 hours a day. A Temporary Internet Use card may be renewed once.

WIFI

Free, unlimited Wireless Internet access is also available for anyone using personal laptops or other mobile devices. Although a library card is not required for WIFI service, internet and computer policies regarding illegal and/or inappropriate content still apply to personal equipment. The WIFI network is labeled COB and doesn't require a password.

Technology Guidelines

 Computer, internet and WIFI rules at Bentonville Library are as follows:

• Computers and WIFI access may not be used for fraudulent or unlawful purposes.  Any illegal activity involving the Library's resources or equipment will be subject to prosecution by appropriate authorities.

• Public displays of obscenity are prohibited by Arkansas State Law and are a clear violation of the Library's Computer Use Policy.

• Content deemed inappropriate for a library setting is not allowed.

• Minors under age eighteen (18) must use a Family Friendly terminal.

• Users may not save data on the hard drives of Library computers.  Discs are available for purchase at the circulation desk.

• Users may not alter or attempt to alter software configurations, install or download software to the public computers.  Files may be downloaded to removable media only.
• The library does not assume responsibility for personal or sensitive information left on the computers desktop by a previous user.
• No beverages at the computer terminals, please.

• All computers shut down 15 minutes before closing.

Supervising Children's Internet Use

It is the library's policy that parents or legal guardians are responsible for deciding what library resources are appropriate for their children. Parents may feel some resources and internet sites are inappropriate for their children. Parents should supervise their children's internet sessions and discuss appropriate content and activities, including social networking, with their children.  

No filtering software can control access to all materials that an individual may deem inappropriate. Please note that social networking is allowed on library computers. Parents are encouraged to review Internet Safety at Home and to talk with their children about internet safety. 

Computers for Public Use:  Definitions

• Family Friendly (ages 5-17 & Adults) Greater level of filtering to protect children, and others, from possibly accessing inappropriate materials. Located in the computer commons.
• General Use (ages 18+) Less filtering to allow for greater access to broader range of material. Located in the computer commons.
• Toddler iPads (ages birth-preschool) Preloaded with apps and games for young users to explore math, science, literacy and art. Located in the toddler room in the Children's Department.
• Tween iPads (ages 5-12) Preloaded with apps and games for school-aged users. Access to internet and video sites is available. Located in the Tween Zone in the Children's Department.
• Teen iPads (ages 13-17) Preloaded with apps and games for teenaged users. Access to internet and video sites is available. Located outside the Teen Zone in the Young Adult Department.
• Laptops (ages 10+)  Five-hour time period, to be used inside the library.  Valid library card and Library of Things Agreement required. All patrons agree to the Technology Guidelines when using laptops.
• Catalog computers (all ages) Access to the Library's catalog only.

Printing and Photocopies

Patrons may print from the public computers and the internet.  Printing is $0.15 for black and white copies and $0.30 for color copies. The Library has an automated payment machine that accepts one dollar bills and all coins except pennies.  At this time, WIFI users must use a portable flash drive to print.  

A black and white photocopier is located in the Library's copy & print center.  Photocopies are $0.15 per page for letter and legal sized paper. 11x17 photocopies are $0.30 per page.