Technology

Various patrons using public computers at the library

All public library computers offer Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, and PowerPoint, as well as Internet access.

Computer and Internet Policy

Young girl holding up her printed image

Wireless printing is available to all users by setting up a free account with SmartAlec. Wirless printing is currently free. Customers are limited to 10 black and white pages per day.

Send a file to the library from your computer at home and pick up your print job with our Curbside Pickup service. (Print Policy).

Instructions and more information

Woman using wifi hotspot with her tablet

Thanks to generous donations to the Library Foundation, the library offers hotspots, Chromebooks, and C•Pen readers for checkout.

Patrons using the print/scan kiosk

Self-service kiosks are available at most library locations to copy, print, scan, and fax.

Customers may print up to 10 black and white pages a day at no cost. After the 10 free prints, black and white prints are $0.20 per page. All color prints are $1.00 per page. 

Copies may be made for $0.20 per page for black-and-white, or $1.00 per page for color copies.  

Faxing and scanning may be done at no cost. 

Man sitting at one of the library's computers
  • LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) is an online education service presented by LinkedIn that can help you learn technology, creative, and business skills.
  • Udemy offers over 4000 courses in the areas of business, tech, and personal development.
  • Mango Languages is an easy to access program that allows you to learn a new language on your own time.
  • Brainfuse offers online academic services designed to support many learning needs and styles. These services include: live tutoring, skills building, and much more.
  • O'Reilly for Public Libraries (formerly Safari Books) offers eBooks on technical topics from a range of publishers including programming, certification training, and specific software applications.
Chromebook kit

Chromebooks and wifi are now available at a time when people without internet access need it the most. Use a Chromebook and wifi hotspot to:

  • Connect the Chromebook to the internet using the hotspot
  • Use the hotspot to put up to 10 wifi enabled devices online simultaneously
  • Access or save files on a USB drive
  • Access or save files to your Google, Microsoft, iCloud or other online account.

More information.

Two public computers in library with assistive technology

All public library computers are equipped with Windows Narrator screen reader software, and Windows Magnifier text-enlarging software.

ADA Accessible Workstations are available at some of our library locations.

More Information about accessibility at the library.

Self checkout using smartphone

Use AACPL Checkout using your phone or tablet for contactless service. 

Don't have a mobile device? Library self-checkout stations are available at all locations. Video: How to use Self-Checkout Stations.

AACPL Checkout is the easiest way to checkout library books, magazines, DVDs and more from your Anne Arundel County Public Library. AACPL Checkout is available for download for all iOS, and Android devices.

Don't have a mobile device? Use one of our Self Checkout Stations in our libraries (How-to video).

Using the AACPL Checkout App

  • Make sure you are connected to the WiFi network in the library
  • Touch START at the welcome screen
  • Scan or enter your library card number and pin when prompted
  • Use the "+" button at the top of the checkout screen to checkout library items.
  • Tips: Fit the entire barcode in the viewfinder. Hold your phone about 6" away from the barcode and hold the phone steady. Give the camera time to focus. Tilt the phone to avoid glare on the barcode. Use flash in low light.
  • Ask library staff for help if needed.
Outdoor WiFi access

Outdoor Wi-Fi Available at the Library

Customers can access the internet even when buildings are closed. The library offers outdoor Wi-Fi at all library locations except Riviera Beach.