Libraries - computers and the internet

Fast and free broadband Internet access is available in all our libraries. We provide free access to the world-wide web, word-processing and spreadsheets. Printing is available at a small charge.

You do not need to be a library member to use our Library Online computers; if you are you can take advantage of the wide range of material available for loan from our libraries.

Please read our Acceptable Use Policy before you use our computers.

If you are new to the Internet, or a bit nervous with computers, you may want to take advantage of some of the events and activities in our libraries:

  • Some have regular "free and easy drop-in" sessions where staff are available to provide a bit more support than usual to help you get started.
  • Some have regular "Silver Surfer" sessions and we always try to have extra sessions available elsewhere in the Borough during Silver Surfers Week.
  • Middleton Library has regular Family History sessions upstairs in the Reference Library
  • The Local Studies Centre at Touchstones, Rochdale has frequent Family History and Community History sessions. The Local Studies Librarians also provide Family History and Community History sessions in libraries elsewhere in the Borough.
  • Other Internet-based learning events take place in our libraries to tie in with events like school holidays and learning weeks.

If you are interested in joining in a session - or if you are interesting in helping to support and/or deliver a session - please contact your local library. Use the links to the right for contact details and opening times of branch libraries.

Online reference resources

The Library Service's online web catalogue provides links to reference resources on the web:

  • The Web Catalogue includes links to web sites dealing with reader development and support; health issues; and lifelong learning;
  • The Kids' Portal includes links to child-oriented web sites dealing with reading development and homework topics;
  • Both include links to our online subscription services.
  • The Local Studies Portal includes links to web sites dealing with local studies and family history.

Search the catalogue