Kirkwood Public Library Wireless Internet Access

Kirkwood Public Library is pleased to offer free wireless Internet access to customers with appropriately equipped wireless devices. When you access the Internet via any Kirkwood Public Library network, wireless or cabled, you are agreeing to abide by the Library's Internet and Technology Agreement and Internet Policy.  Please take the time to review these policies before accessing the network.
To connect to the internet, simply launch your web browser (Internet Explorer, Netscape, Mozilla, etc.) to establish a connection to the KPL Network. Your browser's homepage will appear and you may begin surfing immediately.
If your device does not connect see the appropriate FAQ below.

Kirkwood Public Library Wireless Access Advantages
 No waiting for a free public PC
 No enforced time limits; connect for as long as you like
 Spread out at a larger table in a quieter area of the building
 Fast broadband connection
 Download files
 Save files permanently to your own device

Limitations of Wireless Internet Access
 No printing services available at this time
 A wireless network is less secure than a wired network (see FAQ below)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is WiFi?
WiFi is radio wave technology which allows an appropriately equipped device to access the Internet and library resources from within the Kirkwood Public Library without physically connecting to a network via Ethernet or a phone line.

What can I do with it?
When you are connected to our wireless network you have a high speed connection to the Internet so you can:
• Do online research.
• Check the library catalog
• Access the library's databases
• Check your e-mail.

Where is it?
Coverage is available on all floors of the library. On the first floor, reception is strongest in the reference area alcove and in the magazine area.  Reception is strong in the upstairs balcony area as well as downstairs in the Children's Room.

What do I need?
You need a laptop (or suitable PDA) equipped with wireless network card. Some laptops have wireless cards built-in, for most others you can purchase a compatible card to plug into your computer. Installation of the card and its associated software will vary depending on specific computer, card, and operating system.

What if I don't own a laptop?
If you don't own a laptop you can check out one from the Circulation Desk for a period up to 2 hours.  You can also access the Internet using the Library's public access computers; sign-up is required for the use of these workstations.

What are the guidelines for use?
While using our network (wired or wireless using our computers or using your own) you agree to be bound by our Internet and Technology User Agreement. In simple terms you agree not to interfere with or disturb other patrons (use headphones if necessary), and not to use our network as a harassment tool or for illegal purposes.

Do you charge for this service?
No.

How do I connect?
In most cases, a connection will be automatic and you will need to do nothing more than just open your browser and start exploring the web. Details of configuring your computer for wireless networking will vary depending on the specific models of laptop, operating system, and wireless network card, and are therefore beyond the