For help with your device, you can contact your local library to see if you can schedule a one-on-one session or attend a class for help using our services on your device. If you need technical support for your device, we can help you find where to get it.
To see a list of our upcoming technology classes on particular devices and software, check our calendar for details.
Universal Assistive Technology
All patron computers in all locations have integrated Windows Ease of Access capabilities for text size, high contrast, magnification, and screen reading. All locations have large print/high contrast keyboard on at least one public workstation or by request.
Adaptive Computer Station
One adaptive computer station is available for use in Tech Central, located in the Central Library on the first floor of the Boylston Street Building. In addition to the standard Microsoft Office 2024 and Microsoft Edge and Chrome browsers supported by all BPL public computers, the adaptive workstation includes a large screen monitor, large print/high contrast keyboard, and the following additional assistive tools:
General Information
Computer use is limited to two hours per day, with an automatic extension up to four hours if no one is waiting. Customers must have a Boston Public Library card or a visitor pass to sign up for computer time. Telephone reservations are permitted. Please call 617.859.2255 to make reservations or for more information about the adaptive computer station.
Staff at the desk can assist patrons with basic computer questions. If advanced or extended one-on-one assistance is needed, please make an appointment by emailing computerworkshops@bpl.org or calling 617-859-2323.
The Boston Public Library strives to make our resources accessible to all users through a variety of collections, services, and specialized equipment. See our Accessibility page for more information.
If you have any questions or suggestions related to accessibility at the Boston Public Library, please email ask@bpl.org.
BPL patron computers run Microsoft Windows 11 and have the following software available:
Regular & Express Computers:
Access Computers:
In addition to the standard titles above, our accessibility computers include:
You can download supplementary content from our OverDrive site on a computer, then use the free Adobe Digital Editions software to open it.
Note: You'll need to authorize Adobe Digital Editions to download supplementary content.
All films have closed captions, subtitles and transcripts that are fully ADA compliant.
Most of our online resources are available through our website from wherever you’re connecting. All you need is a library card number. If you don’t have a card yet and you live, work, own property, or are a resident student for part of the year in Massachusetts, you can get an eCard online.
Due to licensing restrictions, some resources are only accessible from inside a BPL or MBLN location. These resources are marked as “in-library only.”
If a resource is not marked as “in-library only” and you are having trouble accessing it from another network, get in touch with us at websupport@bpl.org.
Powered by BiblioCommons.
BiblioWeb: webapp05 Version 4.29.0 Last updated 2025/08/26 09:19
