Internet and Computers
All branches of the Dothan Houston County Library system feature computers that offer access to the Internet, electronic databases, library catalogs and Microsoft Office. Every location also offers free Wi-Fi access during open hours.
Our computers feature up-to-date versions of the following software packages: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Word 2013, Microsoft Excel 2013, Microsoft Powerpoint 2013, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft Publisher 2013, Microsoft Paint, Skype (on laptops), and Windows Media Player.
Special Use Computers
The library offers three special use computers at the Main Branch; a genealogy and local history research computer, and a microfilm reading computer in the Reference area, and a small-business computer in our Small Business Resource Center.
Computer Policies
All library computers and internet connections are subject to library use policy, which can be viewed here.
Using a Computer
To ensure fair access to all users, all library computers have a maximum usage limitation of 2 hours per day, per user.
Library patrons with a valid library card in good standing* may use a computer at any library location. Patrons will need to know their 4 digit PIN number to log in to a computer. All library computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Non-cardholders may purchase a guest pass for $1, which allows them to use a library desktop computer subject to the same usage limitations above. Guest passes expire at close of business on the day they are issued.
Copiers
Printing and copying services are provided at the Downtown and Westgate branches, and printing services only are available at the Ashford branch. In addition, the Downtown and Westgate branches offer WiFi printing services. Copies are $.15 per page for Black/White, and $.50 per page for Color, for a normal letter-size page. Larger paper sizes (available only at the Downtown and Westgate branches) cost more; please see the Circulation Desk for more details.
Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi)
All library locations offer free wireless access (Wi-Fi) in public areas at all times the libraries are open. Please search for and connect to the dhcls-public-byod network.
*For a library card to be in good standing, it must: 1) not be expired; 2) not have bills/fines exceeding $20.00, and; 3) not be manually barred from the system.
When you attempt to login to a resource which requires your library card number, that resource will inform you if your card cannot be used. It may state that your card can’t be used for one of several reasons:
- If the resource states that your card has expired, your library privileges have expired and you will need to come in to a library branch and renew your privileges. Please see our Get a Library Card page for more details, including information on required documentation to renew your card, and validity periods for different card types.
- If the resource states that your card has been blocked, you have fines and/or bills in excess of $20.00. You will need to pay these fines/bills before you can use online resources again. Please speak to a staff member for more information.
- If the resource states that your card has been barred, your library privileges have been suspended as a matter of library policy. This is usually temporary and due to missing or invalid information in your account (for instance, if we find that we do not have a valid address, phone number, and/or date of birth on file). However, a card can be barred for other reasons, including legal action and as a result of a patron being permanently banned from DHCLS property. If your card has been barred, please speak to a staff member to determine why your card has been barred.
If you receive another message or error when trying to access a resource, please speak to a member of library staff.
