Public Computers

The 2nd floor of the Aalfs Downtown Library has 1-hour full-Internet computers and 2-hour Project computers. Project computers are intended for job applications, research, and other projects and limit access to social networking, videos, and games. Several 1-hour Internet computers with limited Internet access are located in the Children’s area. The Morningside Branch Library has five 1-hour Internet computers available for public use.

The Aalfs Downtown Library also has two Microfilm computers to view the Library’s microfilm collection and print or digitally save images from microfilm. Please ask Reference Desk staff on the 2nd floor if you would like to use one of these computers.

You can log in to Library computers twice daily with your Library barcode number. All Sioux City residents are encouraged to apply for a free Sioux City Public Library card. Library cards are not transferable; each patron must use their own Library card to access the computer. Staff will look up barcode numbers for patrons who have forgotten their Library cards if identification is provided; there is a $1.00 fee for this look-up service.

Visitors who are not eligible for a full-service Library card may apply for a free Internet Access card or request a guest login, which costs $1.00 per session with a limit of two sessions per day. Public computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Library’s Internet use policy.

Computer Software

Software available on Library computers includes Microsoft Office 2016 and Adobe Reader. All computers include accessibility software: NVDA screen reader and Microsoft’s built-in Windows Ease of Access software. One computer at the Aalfs Downtown Library has a scanner with NAPS2 scanning software and GIMP image editing software, and has speakers and a microphone (upon request) for accessibility purposes (speech recognition, screen reader use, etc).

Computer Accessories

Computer files can be saved to a CD or USB flash drive. Patrons can purchase a 2 GB USB drive from the Library for $5.00, or a non-rewritable CD for $1.00. Library computers do not support floppy disks and do not have speakers. Patrons may bring their own headphones or purchase earbuds for $2.00.

WiFi Access

Wireless Internet access is available from the Aalfs Downtown Library and the Morningside Branch Library. At the Library, locate “library-guest” in the Wifi network listing on your laptop computer, tablet or phone.

Smarter HotSpots

Smarter HotSpots are available for patrons to check out and use for free internet at home. Access the internet and preinstalled apps directly on the device, or enable it as a hotspot and connect up to eight web-enabled devices to its mobile data for the internet.

  • For patrons age 18+ with a valid full-service Library card in good standing.
  • Check out period is one week (no renewals, but you can check out another device right away if one is available. Limit of one per household at a time.)