Get online! 

All of our libraries provide computers for FREE public use. We have about 700 of them in total - providing access to a range of office software and the Internet (under 16s need parental permission to use the internet). We also offer printing and scanning facilities.

It's a good idea to book in advance as some locations can get very busy. You can book a computer online, or by visiting or phoning your local library.

For security reasons, information and files saved or downloaded by individuals are wiped from the computers after each use. You should therefore save anything you require for future use on an external USB drive/ memory stick. Some filtering is in place but when using the service you are required to agree and conform to our Acceptable Use Policy (PDF, 18k).  

Our computers have Abilitynet software loaded, which helps people with disabilities to use IT. Every library also has access to a range of assistive hardware and at least one computer is suitable for wheelchair users.

Please note: Our public computers do not have speakers and we no longer lend earphones. Customers need to bring their own to make use of Abilitynet's DSpeech or other sound-based facilities.

Free Wi-Fi in Kent Libraries

Library visitors in Kent can now access the internet using their portable devices - such as laptops, tablets and mobile phones at 33 library locations.*

The facility is available from opening time until one hour before the library closes to adults and children with Internet permission who have a library card number and PIN.

Wireless sessions are limited to 1 hour and customers will be able to access the wireless network for up to 5 sessions a day. Filtering is in place to ensure that the service is not used inappropriately. See our Wireless Acceptable Use Policy (PDF, 20k).

* The library locations offering free public Wi-Fi are:

Allington, Ashford, Birchington, Broadstairs, Canterbury, Cheriton, Cliftonville, Coldharbour, Coxheath, Cranbrook, Dartford, Deal, Dover, Edenbridge, Faversham, Folkestone, Gravesend, Herne Bay, Larkfield, Kent History and Library Centre in Maidstone, Margate, Paddock Wood, Ramsgate, Sandgate, Sandwich, Sevenoaks, Sittingbourne, Southborough, Stanhope, Summer House Drive, Swanley, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells.

Can't get to the library? Unleash the power of your library ticket, let it come to you! We have a range of online services you can use remotely.

Need help using a computer or the Internet?

All our libraries are registered as UK Online centres and provide access to the free 'Learn my way' courses. Ask at your library for details of how to register.

You could also use the BBC Webwise and Digital Unite step-by-step guides and BBC Firstclick basic courses.

Our libraries run taster sessions from time to time, and many of them have IT volunteers who can help you get online. More specialised Homework Buddies and Ancestry Buddies (to assist with researching family history online) are also available in some locations.

To find out about IT Buddy sessions in your area, contact your local library or select a district in the list below:

Looking to get in deeper? Try a Kent Adult Education computer course (or see the 'Useful links' box).

Keep safe online

Check our Internet use and safety page or go to Get Safe Online. There also is a specific a specific module in the Online Basics section of Learn My Way.