Library launches WiFi access

Library visitors with their own laptop computers or PDAs and properly configured wireless cards can access the Internet in most public areas within the 9,000 square-foot library. Wireless Internet access is filtered in the same way that the library district's Internet-access computers are, using a commercial filter that prevents the display of pornographic Web sites.

The district will continue to roll out wireless access in its other libraries, with Goldendale and Stevenson next in line.

White Salmon Valley Community Librarian Jennifer Hull said the White Salmon library was selected to launch the service because of the high demand for wireless access here.

"This will be a convenience for local residents who would like to use their laptops at the library," Hull said. "We also have a lot of visitors to this area who come to the library hoping to find WiFi," she added.

The library's wireless service will not require use of a library card or registration, nor will there be a time limitation. The service will be available during the library's open hours.

Due to their other duties, the complexities of computer equipment and the many possible computer configurations, library staff will not be able to help users work out any access problems.

The district would like to receive feedback on the system, however, and encourages users to fill out "Patron Comment" forms available in the library.

For more information about call the library 493-1132.