Technology FAQs

  • General Questions

    No, all MADL branches have computers that are available for public use at no cost. If you don't have a library card, a guest pass may be available with proof of identification.

    All MADL branches have WiFi available for the public. Connect to MADL Public network and accept the terms of use to connect. There is no fee to connect.

    WiFi is available inside and outside all library branches from 7am to 11pm. 

    Headphones must be used to listen to audio. You may bring your own or purchase headphones at the library for $1. Some branches have headphones for checkout.

    No, all files are removed from public computers after each use. However, files can be saved on a USB flash Drive. If you do not have a flash drive you can purchase one at any branch for $5. 

    The Michigan Electronic Library Catalog, abbreviated MeLCat, is a statewide catalog that allows MADL patrons to borrow interlibrary loan books from Library systems throughout Michigan.

    MADL cardholders who request items through MeLCat are able to have these books delivered to their home MADL branch. Delivery time for MeLCat may be two to three weeks.

    MADL does not allow for bringing your own paper to print on. MADL only prints on standard 8 1/2 x 11 copy paper. If you are looking to print something on larger or heavier paper we recommend looking at other printing services at printing stores such as UPS, FedEx, Staples, etc.

    Photocopy machines with printing, copying, scanning, and faxing functions are available at all MADL branches.

    Printing services include:

    • Wireless Printing (black and white and color)
    • Printing from a library computer (black and white and color)
    • Copying (black and white and color)
    • Scanning (to email or USB)

    Costs:

    • Black and white copying and printing - 15 Cents per page
    • Color copying and printing - 75 Cents per page
    • Scanning - No charge
    • Faxing - 50 Cents per page

    Branches only accept cash or check as payment.

    All of MADL's computers run on Windows 11 and have the following programs:

    • Edge
    • Firefox
    • Chrome
    • Microsoft Office:
      • Excel
      • PowerPoint
      • Word
      • Publisher
    • Adobe Reader
    • Calculator
    • Link to Ancestry.com
    • Link to Brainfuse
    • Snipping Tool

    Basic guidelines for computer use at MADL include:

    • A 2 hour time limit on all standard public computer terminals.
    • Time limits may be extended under certain circumstances granted by staff.
    • Internet access is filtered.
    •  Printing from computers is available for 15 cents for black and white pages and 75 cents for color pages

    View the full Guidelines for Computer Use.

  • Hotspots

    Yes, only MADL card holders age 18 and over can checkout out our hotspots.

    Hotspots are available at all MADL locations. To view hotspot availability or put one on hold, visit the MADL Catalog. 

    The library's hotspot agreement must be completed prior to checkout, acknowledging responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged equipment.

    The hotspot must be returned directly to a staff member at any MADL branch (not in the drop box). A $5 charge will be applied to the patron account if the hotspot is returned to the drop box.

  • Laptop Kiosk

    Follow the on-screen instructions on the kiosk. These instructions include reading and accepting the Kiosk Device Terms of Use.

    Any MADL patron over 18 years old with a valid library card and less than $120 in fines can check out a laptop.

    No, feel free to take the laptop wherever you like while you have it. We recommend a local coffee shop, brewery, or park.

    Yes, but we recommend you use an external storage device (like a flash drive) and save your work there. If the laptop reboots at any time during your borrowing time, all data is wiped out.

    All laptops are 100% virus-free when you borrow them. If you get a virus while using the laptop, a simple reboot will remove it. NOTE: Save your work to an external storage device first.

    Laptops are wiped clean after each use when they are shut down or when the lid is closed, to protect your privacy.

    Turn on the laptop right after you borrow it, and the device will automatically connect to the mobile WiFi network. If you would like to connect to another network such as a coffee shop, please go to the bottom right corner of the task bar and select the network.

    A laptop cannot be borrowed while it is in charging mode or if it was reported damaged. Charging laptops will show up as yellow on the kiosk screen. Damaged laptops will show up as yellow with a wrench icon. Damaged devices will be repaired and replaced as soon as possible.

    The kiosk needs a little time to delete the previous patron’s data and recharge the battery.

    You are responsible for the loss or damage up to the total cost of the laptop per the Kiosk Device Terms of Use you accepted when borrowing it. ($999)

    First, notify staff. Then, return the laptop to the kiosk. Please choose the on-screen option that describes the problem you had, then check out another device if available.

    No, you are responsible for returning the laptop on a timely basis (72 hours).

    No signature is required but you must read and accept the Kiosk Device Terms of Use each time you borrow a laptop.

    Not directly, however, we do offer mobile printing options where you can send a print job to us and pick it up at one of our branches.

    No, however if you would like to make another checkout and there is a laptop available in the kiosk you are welcome to check another one our immediately.