Computers and the internet
There are computers and free WiFi available for people to use at Normanton, Alvaston, Mickleover and Riverside Libraries. Derby Local Studies and Family History Library have computers and WiFi available for local history and family history research purposes.
Printing is available at these sites and payment must be made by card.
To use a computer or library Wifi:
- You do not need to book a PC in advance but advance booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Contact your local library to book a library computer
- PC sessions are limited to one hour – you can extend your session provided the machine is not booked.
- We can offer limited staff support for PC users. If you want to build your IT skills and confidence, we recommend booking an Internet Taster Session.
PC use is available to full members of Derby Libraries. Visitors to Derby can use the computers by showing identification, normally this should be the same identification needed to join the library, but international visitors can use a passport, national identity card or driving licence. We regret we do not accept credit or debit cards for ID purposes.
Related Clubs and activities
What can I do on the library computers?
You can:
- search the Internet
- use web based email
- create documents, spreadsheets, databases and presentations using Microsoft Office
- search and apply for jobs
- print documents in black and white or colour – there is a charge for this
You can also use the eReference library to:
- browse national newspapers and magazines
- get homework help
- get general information from well known reference works, such as Encyclopaedia Britannica
Visit our find your local library page to see which of our libraries is closest to you.
The National Databank at Normanton Library
Derby Libraries work with the Good Things Foundation to deliver free mobile internet data from Normanton Library, by providing SIM cards and data vouchers to people who need them, as well as staff support to get connected.
The UK National Databank brings data connectivity to people who can’t afford it and find themselves cut off from job searching, finding essential health or other information online, or from accessing digitised public services.
The scheme is delivered on an appointment basis. To book an appointment, please call Normanton Library on 01332 642640 or speak to a member of staff at Normanton, Alvaston, Mickleover or Riverside Library.
Eligibility
Someone receiving data through the National Databank must:
- Be 18+ years old
- AND be from a low-income household
And qualify in one or several of the following statements:
- Has no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
- AND/OR has no or insufficient access to the internet when away from the home
- AND/OR cannot afford their existing monthly contract or top up
A person can have access to data for up to 12 months.
Internet taster courses
We run free Internet taster courses for anyone who is new to using the Internet. These courses are for two sessions and give the learner a good understanding of how the Internet can benefit them.
Tech Hub for people with sight loss
The Tech Hub provides support to blind and partially sighted people in using technology and how it can be used effectively. Volunteers will be on hand to help you with any questions or problems you have with your devices, including smartphones and tablets.
The Hub is a joint collaboration between the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s (RNIB) Community Connection Service, local community group Derbyshire Impaired Visually Society, also known
as DIVS, and Derby Libraries.
The Hub will be open on an appointment basis.
Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 and request an appointment and the advisor will be able to support you. Alternatively, you can tell your smart speaker to call RNIB Helpline or send an email to RNIB Helpline.