The Frost Free Library offers wireless "WiFi" access to the Library's Internet service. When you use the Library's Internet service you are accepting the Library's Acceptable Use Policy. Please take the time to read the policy before accessing the network; you may ask the Librarian at the desk for a copy.

Advantages

• No waiting for an available computer
• No enforced time limits-- connect as long as you like
• Library card is not required
• Work in a quieter area of the building
• Fast access
• Download files
• Save your files permanently on your own device

 Limitations

• No printing services are available
• A WiFi network is less secure than a wired network (see "How Safe is WiFi?" below)
• Signal strength varies within the library

 Where you can pick up the wireless signal

You may pick up a signal throughout the Library, although the signal will be weaker (and therefore the connection not as fast) upstairs in the Mabelle Page Meeting Room and towards the far back of the original section of the Library.

How Safe is WiFi?

Whether through a traditional connection or a wireless connection, the Internet is a public communications network, which means that there can be untrustworthy parties between you and anybody you communicate with.

Using WiFi poses the same risks to your personal information that a wired network poses, but with the added vulnerability of having the network more open and less secure. This is the nature of WiFi - the network may be easily accessed by many people. Cautious WiFi users may choose not to transmit their credit card information and passwords while using any WiFi "hotspot", including the Library's. The Library cannot assure the safety of your data when you use either our wired or wireless Internet access.

What You Will Need 

• Wireless network interface card (NIC)
• A laptop or PDA configured to use the Library's Internet connection
• Your laptop or PDA must conform to the "802.11b/g" standard, commonly known as WiFi. New laptops often come standard with a wireless interface and may be automatically configured to pick up the wireless signal.
• Compatible headphones if you plan to use audio files.
  

Wireless Technical Information

• Wireless hardware and software varies as to the operating systems you may use on your laptop or PDA, so the same instructions may not work for everyone. In many cases, you don't need to do anything to hook up, except to click on your browser.
• Most wireless software has an indicator that tells you a signal is being received. Make sure the link quality and signal strength are both at least "good." If not, move about the room to a location that has a stronger signal.
  

Please note that the library staff cannot assist you with your laptop, PDA, card, or configuration. 

The Library cannot accept the liability of handling your equipment.

The Library shall not be responsible for any loss of data or damage to personal equipment. 

Reviewed and approved by the Board of Trustees
February 2007