Wireless Access Policy

The public may use personal laptops, PDAs, or wireless devices within buildings or grounds of Dorchester County Library offering this service. The public may use wireless devices in any part of the library open to the public or grounds provided no obstacle or safety hazard is created.

In order to access the wireless network, users must first accept the Wireless Access Policy. Users must abide by the Computer and Internet Service Policy and related policies of the Dorchester County Library. Wireless users are subject to federal, state or local laws or regulations. Use of personal wireless devices to display or disseminate graphic pornography, sexually explicit or sexually suggestive material is inappropriate for a public or open environment and is prohibited. Violations of this policy and related procedures may result in loss of library privileges. Illegal use may result in criminal prosecution.

Printing is not available through the wireless network.

The sending of any information, including name, address and credit card numbers via the Internet is at the sole risk of the user.

Information downloaded from the Internet may contain a virus. The Library is not responsible for damage to a patron’s wireless device nor for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from the use of the Library's wireless network.

Personal wireless devices may plug into specifically designated electrical outlets, if available. However, the Library is not liable for any damage created by power loss, surges or brownouts.

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Wireless Access Guidelines

Dorchester County Library offers free “Wi-Fi” access.  When you use the Library’s Internet service you are accepting the Library’s Computer and Internet Service Policy. 

What do I need to connect to the Library’s wireless network?
You will need a portable device with wireless capabilities.  A laptop or PDA requires a wireless network card and must conform to the “802.11b/g” standard.  

Where can I connect?
You may connect anywhere in the library except inside the computer center.  Power sources are provided in designated areas.  As a safety precaution, do not extend power cords across walk ways. 

How do I connect to the Library’s wireless access?
The wireless card settings need to point to the Library's wireless network called dclwireless. The library’s wireless network is open to all visitors and does not require a password.  When you open your web browser, the following will display:

After you have read and accepted the Wireless Access Policy, the following window will appear.  Please MINIMIZE this window until you are ready to log out.  You may not see this window if you have a pop-up blocker but your connection should not be affected.

How long may I use the wireless network?
There are no time limits. 

Are there any restrictions or filtering?
Yes.  Use of personal wireless devices to display or disseminate pornography, sexually explicit or sexually suggestive material is prohibited. 

Can I print from my wireless device?
No.  Printing is not available through the wireless network.  You may wish to transfer documents to your personal email account and use the library’s computers to print your documents for .20 per page.

 What if I cannot connect to the wireless network? 

• If you receive a “Page Cannot Be Displayed” error message, verify you are receiving a signal.  Make sure the link quality and signal strength are “good.”
• The wireless card settings allow a laptop to connect to the Library's wireless network.  Before changing any settings, see if your laptop automatically recognizes the dclwireless network. If it does, try connecting again.
• Wireless settings used at home can conflict with settings needed at the Library. Please make certain that original settings can be restored before making any changes.

Limitations & Disclaimers

• There is no guarantee that you will be able to establish a connection.
• The library cannot guarantee the Internet speed or quality of the connection.
• Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure and use is at your own risk.  Virus, security and privacy protection is your responsibility and are not provided.
• The library is not responsible for any damage to data files, alteration to file systems, or functionality of your computer resulting from connecting to the wireless network.
• Due to liability issues, library staff cannot configure laptops or handheld computers or install any devices or software on wireless devices.

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