PC Reservation FAQ for Library Users

1. What is PC Reservation?
PC Reservation is software that assigns the same amount of time each day for each library user. This software will help the library to fairly manage access to the library’s computers.

2. What do I need to do to sign up?
You will need a library card that has been registered in the NOBLE database. At any available computer, click on “Click here to start” and then enter your library card number (do not include the spaces in the library card number).

3. What if the computer does not recognize my library card or I don’t have a library card?
Please register your card or get a new card at the Circulation Desk. In either case, you will need identification that has your name and current address on it.

4. What if I am a temporary visitor from outside of Massachusetts or out of the area?
You may get a temporary guest ID at any of the library’s public service desks. Guest IDs are given the same amount of time per day as a regular library card number.

5. How long may I use a public access computer?
Each person is allowed a total of 3 hours per day.

6. Why are there different time limits in different parts of the library?
Time limits are set up to help create more computer availability in the library’s very busy areas. The time limits are 2 hours in the Youth Room and 15 minutes on the Express computers in the Reference Room.

7. What happens if I use up 2 hours in the Youth Room or 15 minutes on an Express computer? Can I use another computer in another part of the library?
Yes, you can. You have up to a maximum of 3 hours each day.

8. What happens if I need to step away from the computer for a few minutes?
Click on the Lock button, and create your own password, which you will use to unlock the computer later. Minutes spent away from the computer count as part of your total allowed time.

9. What should I do when I have finished using the computer?
If there is still time left on your session, be sure to end your session by clicking “Done” and “End now”. This will ensure that the rest of your time for that day will be saved for you should you choose to log in again later on the same day.

10. What happens if the computer sits idle and unlocked?
After five minutes your computer session will time out.

11. How will I know my computer time is ending?
On most computers, you will receive three warning messages before the end of your session. On the Express computers you will receive two messages. You will also receive a message five minutes before the library closes.

12. Is it possible to extend my computer time if no on else is waiting?
Check with a librarian 10 minutes before the end of your session. Extending computer time beyond 3 hours will be at the librarian’s discretion.