Enoch Pratt Free Library's Main Branch
Local Baltimore libraries can be a great technology resource for those without computers or an Internet connection. While many people may have computers, many more people may not have access to computers or even an Internet connection. With the economic downturn, many people may have had to cut back on expenses, including Internet access. Without computers or an Internet connection, many people are at a disadvantage for seeking employment, doing school work, or even communicating with others. Luckily the Baltimore region has some of the best libraries that offer free computer and Internet access.
Finding a library with free computer access is easy. In Baltimore city there is the Enoch Pratt Free Library system which has numerous branches throughout the city. In Baltimore County, there are also numerous branches that also offer computers access for free. While many computer stations may be filled, often one can sign up for a scheduled time. Generally one needs to have a library account and an account password. Both are usually easy to obtain from the front desk of each library branch.
Local libraries often have both normal and disabled accessible computer stations. There are also usually one or more printers for users to print out documents at a nominal cost. At the Enoch Pratt Library system, USB flash drives are available for $8 which can store more than a few documents and resumes. There are also numerous free, online storage sites including email systems that can store or send documents. Often people use computers at libraries for many reasons. These reasons can include playing games, completing research, conducting employment searches, writing letters, networking, or even taking classes online. At some branches there are even tutorial programs and books that are available to help learn how to use a computer. In Baltimore County libraries, there are even free computer classes for anyone to learn about computers.
The best way to take advantage of the free computer access is to go during off peak hours and to have a specific task in mind. Many computers have sessions which last only thirty minutes while others have have multiple hour periods available. However, if a person has their task already planned out then the time can be spent more wisely. This can be especially important when there are more patrons around such as on weekends or at night. If a person doesn’t have a preexisting email, they can setup a free account at Hotmail or Gmail which can then be used anywhere.
Part II continues on with information about the Enoch Pratt Free Library System
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