Long Beach Public Library
Public Wireless Network
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and Guidelines

The Long Beach Public Library now has a wireless network (WiFi) that provides Internet access for customers.
The following FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) should assist you in utilizing this service.

Welcome to the Library's wireless network.
To logout of the network click on the "Click to Logout" link on the logout popup. Please be sure to disable your popup blocking software so that the logout link will display.

What is wireless?
  • Wireless Internet access uses radio frequency signals to exchange information between your computer and the Internet.
  • No cables are required.


    • Why wireless?
  • Wireless allows library users to bring their own computers to the library and to get Internet access.
  • Library users can use their wireless laptop computers or PDAs to get Internet access at most tables or carrels in the library. You are not limited to the normal computer areas of the library.


    • How do I use wireless at the library?
  • The Long Beach Public Library System uses the WiFi standard (also know as IEEE802.11b/g). This standard provides up to 54 megabits/second connection speed. Speed will vary by location and numbers of users.
  • You will need to bring your own laptop computer to the library and it will need to have built-in WiFi or you will need to install a WiFi network card. The library does not provide wireless cards.
  • Most WiFi equipment will be compatible. However, the library can make no guarantees as to the compatibility of your equipment with the library’s network.
  • Printers are not available to wireless users in the library.


    • What is the network name (or SSID) of the Library's wireless system?
  • The Library's network name (service set identifier) is LBPL.


    • Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?
  • Yes you will need a valid Long Beach Public Library card to access the Library’s public wireless network.
  • Your Library Card Identification Number (found on the back of your card), and your Personal Identification Number (PIN) which is usually the last 4 digits of your telephone number are required.


    • When I access your remote databases, will I have to provide a Library Card?
  • You will need a valid Long Beach Public Library card to access the Library’s public wireless network. Once you have access, you should not be required to input your library card number again for database access.

    Since I’m using my own equipment, do the general rules about computer use still apply to me?
  • Yes – you still cannot disrupt other patrons as described in the Long Beach Public Library Policies and Procedures, as amended. Any activities deemed illegal apply to you whether or not you are on a Library-owned computer or your own computer. Furthermore, security hardware and software will disconnect you temporarily or permanently from the entire wireless network if you attempt to circumvent standard procedures and protocols, or attempt to access or manipulate equipment to which you are not authorized to connect. Any illegal activity will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.


    • Are there any restrictions that I need to know about?
  • Yes:
       -- There are no printing services available to wireless users.
       -- WiFi networks can be less secure.
       -- WiFi networks can have varied signal strength so the quality of the connection may vary.


    • Can the library help me configure my computer?
  • No – everyone’s computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. Library staff is not able to provide technical assistance and we cannot guarantee that you will be able to make a wireless connection.
  • The Long Beach Public Library System cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer’s settings.
  • If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the manufacturers of your hardware of software. The library staff cannot provide any help beyond this FAQ page.


    • What about virus protection and security?
  • It is solely the responsibility of the wireless device owner/user to provide anti-virus protection, and to configure their laptop/PDA settings to provide the appropriate security settings to control access from other wireless devices within the Library and the Internet itself. The Long Beach Public Library cannot, and will not, take responsibility for damages incurred for incorrect, insufficient or incomplete security settings; or lack of adequate or up-to-date virus protection. Wireless users assume all risks in this regard.
  • Your connection to the Library’s wireless network is not secure. Information sent from or to your laptop can be captured by anyone with a wireless device and the appropriate software.
  • The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment resulting from connection to the Library’s network.


    • Hours of Operation
  • Wireless access is available only during hours the Library is open.


    • Will this be available at the branches?
  • Yes, as time and funding permits, wireless networks will be installed at neighborhood branch libraries. At present, Main Library and the Dana, North, and Harte Neighborhood Libraries have wireless networks.


    • Will I be able to plug my laptop in to AC power?
  • Customers will need to run their laptop or portable device from their unit’s internal battery power except in designated areas marked within the Library. Under no circumstances may customers use power outlets that are already used for library equipment, nor may they use power outlets that will block walkways and cause a safety hazard.


    • Do you charge for this service?
  • No, there is no charge for this service.


    • Is the wireless access filtered for children in any way?
  • Yes, the Library employs filtering software pursuant to Federal law (47 U.S.C. Sec. 254). The Library will not disable or unblock sites for people using wireless devices. If you wish to view an Internet site that has been blocked, you must use the Library’s computers which are located in specific areas.



    • Long Beach Public Library and Information Center
    101 Pacific Avenue
    Long Beach, CA 90822
    Phone: (562) 570-7500


    This document is available in alternate formats. Phone (562) 570-7500 for more details.

    Long Beach Public Library/April 2006