Boston Public Library
Internet Access
Central Library

The Boston Public Library is a wireless hotspot.  Patrons using wireless devices may access the Library's Internet service at the Central library and at all branch locations.

Library computers are available at the following Internet access points:

  • 8 PCs on the Second Floor of the Johnson Building for Adult Service, equipped as well with Microsoft Office programs for public use.
  • 8 PCs on the Second Floor of the McKim Building (Washington Room) for Adult Service, equipped as well with Microsoft Office programs for public use.
  • 10 Express, 15 minute PCs on the First Floor of the Johnson Building for Adult Service.
  • 4 PCs in the Children's Room for Kids 8-13
  • There are PCs for subject specific access to the Internet in all Research Library Departments.

The Boston Public Library does not monitor Internet use, has no control over the information accessed through the Internet, and cannot be held responsible for its content. The Internet may contain material of a controversial nature. The Boston Public Library complies with the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act which requires the use of filtering software for adults, teens and children. Adults, defined by the law as over the age of 17, may choose to use unfiltered computers for Internet access. Filtering software may not block all material users might find offensive. Parents may give their children approval to use unfiltered computers for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. Parents are encouraged to supervise their children’s Internet sessions

The Boston Public Library provides computers for children with filtering software to limit children's exposure to some web sites. The software blocks some specific sites that could be offensive to some users. Filtering software may not block all material users might find offensive. Parents may wish to supervise their children's Internet sessions. Parents may give their children approval to use unfiltered computers.

Downloading to disk is permitted.

Signing up for computer use:

  • In our branch locations and many Central Library departments you must sign up with the Pharos Computer Reservation system before using an Internet computer; a library or visitors card is necessary for some computer use.
  • If you are doing subject specific research in some Central Library research departments you must sign in with Library staff before using an Internet computer; a library or visitors card is necessary for computer use.

Users are required to adhere to any posted use or time limitations.

For the Boston Public Library Internet policy click here.