About the library > Policies > Wireless Internet Access at Multnomah County Libraries
Wireless Internet Access at Multnomah County Libraries
Adopted 12.17.07
Multnomah County Library is pleased to offer free public wireless Internet access. Initially, the library's wireless network was available at Gresham, Hillsdale, Holgate, Hollywood and St. Johns libraries, and in the Map Room on the third floor at Central Library. We expect to expand wireless access to all library locations in 2008.
Current list of locations with WiFi
Users who have personal electronic devices (laptops, PDAs, hand-held games, etc.) with wireless Internet cards may be able to access a wireless connection from inside these Multnomah County Library buildings. Other public wireless networks may be accessible in some library buildings as well.
About WiFi at Multnomah County Library
Wireless access currently uses the WiFi standards 802.11 a, b and g. Most wireless devices should recognize the library network automatically. If your device does not have wireless built in, you must purchase a WiFi compatible network card.
- The library does not assist users in obtaining a wireless connection.
- Signal strength may vary throughout the library. Please move to a different location within the library if you are having trouble securing a connection or staying online.
- Library staff cannot perform repairs or troubleshoot your equipment.
- Wireless connections are not secure; use caution when transmitting personal information.
- Be prepared to use battery power. Do not plug into an outlet where you block aisles, exits or access to materials. Libraries have limited electrical outlets.
- The library cannot guarantee your equipment will work with the library's network.
- Do not leave your equipment unattended. The library is not responsible for equipment that is lost or stolen.
Questions and Answers about WiFi at Multnomah County Library
Rules for Acceptable Use of Wireless Internet Connections
Regardless of the WiFi source, wireless Internet users inside the library or on library premises are subject to the library's Acceptable Use of the Internet and Library Public Computers rules, with the exception of those rules that apply to library-owned equipment.
Specifically, as a wireless Internet user, you must:
- Stop viewing any site that creates a hostile environment for other library users and staff if a staff member asks you to stop.
- Follow the rules of the websites you visit.
- Never harass others with prints, images or messages.
- View and print only legal material and conduct only legal activity.
- Make appropriate choices about the sites you view when others are present, since the library is a public place that serves children as well as adults.
- Use sound-muffling headphones or mute sound to avoid disturbing others.
- Never block aisles, exits or access to library materials.
- Follow all provisions of Behavior Rules Governing the Use of Multnomah County Library.
All wireless access in the Children's Library at Central Library is limited to individuals 14 years old or younger.
Wireless users who do not follow the rules for wireless Internet use may be asked to stop using wireless connection inside the library, be excluded from all county libraries and/or be prosecuted.