Wireless Internet Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to access the wireless Internet at the New Glarus Public Library?

A laptop, PDA or other device with a wireless network interface card and a fully charged battery. If you plan to use audio files, you will need to have headphones. Due to space limitations and related safety / security concerns, you cannot plug your laptop, etc. into any Library or Village Hall electrical outlets / wall jacks – so please come prepared.

How can I use wireless Internet at the library?

Most users can simply bring their wireless-enabled computer or device to the library and turn it on. The computer will automatically recognize the wireless network. Your wireless-enabled device must be set to DHCP. The New Glarus Public Library cannot guarantee your equipment will work with the library's network. If you change any settings on your laptop please be prepared to change them back in order to use your other wireless networks. Wireless access is available during regular library hours (10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday).

Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?

There are no encryption settings but you will need to register and login each time you use the wireless Internet. The registration process is web based and presented to you when you connect to the wireless network.

Is my information safe while using wireless?

Your information is not protected while using wireless, unless you are connected to a web page that employs SSL or SSH encryption (stores, banks, etc.). Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive business or personal information.

Are there any restrictions on my use of the Internet?

Wireless users must read and accept the New Glarus Public Library's Internet Acceptable Use policy. The terms of use are listed during the registration process and at each log on. After a one-hour inactivity period you will be logged off the system. When taking online tests you need to open a new browser window and occasionally browse to a different page to avoid losing your Internet connection. There is a 500MB data limit per day. This ensures that one person can’t monopolize the wireless network.

Can I access the library’s LINK catalog?

All of the library’s online resources including LINKcat are available at www.linkcat.info.

Can I print while using wireless?

Printing is not available. If you need to print, please save your work to a CD / USB storage device or e-mail the files to yourself, then log in to a library workstation and send to a printer.

Can the library help me configure my computer?

Sorry, everyone's computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. The New Glarus Public Library cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings. If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the manufacturer or supplier of your equipment.

Can I send/receive email using email clients? (Outlook, Outlook Express, Thunderbird, etc)

Due to potential spamming through this wireless service, you will not be able to SEND email when using an email client program like Outlook, or Thunderbird. You will be able to RECEIVE email from these programs. To send email you must use a web-based e-mail account such as Gmail or Yahoo. Your home or office ISP may offer web based e-mail.

The New Glarus Public Library’s 2009 Wireless Internet project was made possible through funding from the Village of New Glarus, the Town of New Glarus, the New Glarus Community Foundation / Community Foundation of South Wisconsin , and the South Central Library System (using federal LSTA funds).