Computer & Internet Access

Computers at the Library

Each library location has public Internet computers. Some of the computers at each library can be reserved ahead of time, while some are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Computers with the entire Microsoft Office 2019 Pro Edition are available at every location.

Reserving a Computer

Library users can reserve a computer ahead of time using our Reserve a Computer system.

Only Library account holders are able to make a reservation online
Reservations can be made up to one day in advance
Only one reservation per day is allowed
Reservations can only be one hour in length

Printing & Copying Services

Printers and copy machines are available for use at each library building. The cost is 10 cents per page for black and white copies and 50 cents per page for color copies. The Library does not offer faxing services.

A microfilm/microfiche reader is available at the Northtown Library. Users may print, scan or email from the reader. Prints are $.10 per page.

Wireless Printing

With our new wireless printing solution, you can send a print job to the library from anywhere:

Visit our online SmartAlec print portal.
Log in using your library card number or select the Create an Account option to generate a temporary card number. If you use the Create an Account option, make sure to write down that number, as you will need it later to retrieve your print job at the library.
Upload the file you want to print. A wide variety of file formats are supported.
Access your print job or job at the kiosk located near the printer at any Anoka County Library branch within the next seven days. Follow the onscreen instructions to print your file.

Go Wireless @ Anoka County Library

Take advantage of Anoka County Library’s high-speed Internet access using your own wireless-enabled laptop computer or other portable device. This free service is available in all Anoka County libraries.

How do I use wireless at Anoka County Library?

To use the wireless network, simply bring your wireless enabled laptop computer or other device to the Library and turn it on.

When your device senses a signal, a message should appear on your screen indicating that a wireless network is available.

Open your Web browser and you will be presented with the wireless login page.

You will need to click on "I Agree" to begin using the Library’s wireless access.

Can the Library help me configure my computer?

Sorry, everyone’s computer is different and you are responsible for configuring your own equipment. The Library cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer’s settings. Your laptop computer or other portable device will need to have a wireless interface card. Most Wi-Fi equipment will be compatible. However, the Library can make no guarantees as to compatibility of your equipment with the Library’s network. If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the company that sold you the laptop or the manufacturers of your hardware or software.

What are the advantages?

By using your laptop at the Library for checking email, surfing the Internet, and doing research, you are freeing up Library Internet stations for people who vitally need that access.

Since patrons provide their own equipment, the time limits enforced on Library computers do not apply to wireless users. You can use the system all day.

What about security?

The Library’s wireless network is not secure. Information sent to or from your laptop can potentially be captured by someone else. The Library assumes no responsibility for equipment, configurations, security (including virus or Spyware protection), or any data files accessed while using the Library’s wireless network.

Exactly how does wireless Internet access work?

Wi-Fi, short for wireless fidelity, uses radio frequency signals to exchange information between your computer and access points in the Library. This information then is passed on through the Library’s physical (wired) connection to the Internet. Wireless enables the Library system to offer this service without having to incur extra expenses for installing new wiring. No cables are required.