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Wireless Internet Access
The Somerville Central Library is pleased to offer the public free wireless Internet access. To access the wireless connection, your equipment must have a wireless network card (Wi-Fi card). This service is available any time the Central Library is open. Cell phone/web-enabled cell phone may not be used in any part of the library. You may use audio equipment/headphones with your laptop so long as the sound does not disturb other patrons.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does my laptop/PDA require in order to use this connection?
  • You must have a wireless network card.  Your laptop/PDA must NOT have a static proxy server or static DNS server specified. The DNS setting should be set up to Obtain DNS Server Address Automatically.
  • How do I connect?
  • If you can connect your computer to the Internet from any Internet café shop, then it will probably work in the Library. The Library's wireless network name is "somlibrary" for the main reading room on the 2nd floor (Wellington Hall) of the Central Library (79 Highland Ave.), and a variation ("somlibrary1") for the first floor (Teen Room, auditorium, Children's Room) . There is no password needed.
  • Where should I place my computer in order to use this wireless connection?
  • You should be able to use our wireless connection throughout Wellington Hall (the second floor and balcony level of the Library).
  • Can a librarian help me if I have a problem connecting?
  • We regret that we cannot provide the wireless card, configure your equipment for you, nor help you with troubleshooting.
  • Can I print from my laptop/PDA?
  • We do not provide printing with wireless Internet access.

Note: The Somerville Public Library takes no responsibility for any damage caused to any device from configuration changes or software downloaded while accessing our wireless Internet. The wireless signal and the bandwidth are not within our control; the Library is not responsible if you cannot get on to the Internet at any time. Wireless users accessing the Library's connection must agree to the Somerville Public Library Internet policy.