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Digital help and support in libraries

Cambridgeshire Libraries are here to help you get online safely and make the most of the digital world.

The information on this page explains how you can access devices, get connected to the Internet, and find training and support to improve your digital skills.

We offer free use of public computers at all our libraries. You will need to join Cambridgeshire Libraries, and have a membership number and PIN to log in to one of our computers. Joining the library is free.

You’re welcome to login to any available PC, or you can book ahead - Book a library computer

Please note that your booking is secured for 10 minutes from the start of the booking time. If you do not access a library computer within 10 minutes your reservation will ‘expire’ and other people will be able to use the computer.

Our LendIT collection consists of laptops, tablets and MiFi devices which you can borrow free of charge for 7 days at a time. Loans can be renewed for another 7 days if no one else has reserved the equipment.

Laptops

  • Hardware: Lenovo Thinkpads with Windows 10 operating system and Asus Vivobook with Windows 11 operating system.
  • Software: Microsoft Office – log in with a personal Microsoft account. You can Register for a free Microsoft account. LibreOffice installed as an alternative to Microsoft Office.
  • Security: all laptops are protected by a device management system which resets the laptop each time it’s shut down.

Check availability or reserve laptops.

Tablets

  • We have 10.1-inch HD Lenovo touchscreen tablets to borrow.

Check availability or reserve tablets.

MiFi devices

You can get online without using WiFi or your mobile data with our ZTE MiFi 2021 devices. The MiFi connects to 3G/4G/5G networks and has a data allowance that creates a wireless hotspot. These can be charged from a tablet or laptop.

Check availability or reserve MiFi devices.

How to borrow equipment from LendIT Collection

You need to be a member of Cambridgeshire Libraries to use this service. Membership is free.

Join Cambridgeshire Libraries

Due to high demand, we strongly recommend reserving the equipment before collecting from your local library. 

Devices are held at:

They can be delivered to any of our 33 libraries. You will need to bring your library card to pick up the devices.

You can check availability and reserve a device using the links above.

How to use the equipment

You can connect the laptops and tablets to the internet on your home broadband. If you don’t have the Internet at home, you can borrow one of our MiFi devices or alternatively connect to a CambWifi hotspot around Cambridgeshire. Information on how to do this is included with every device. 

We have added Ukrainian and Russian language options. Virtual Ukrainian/Russian keyboards are installed on each laptop’s home screen. Other languages can be added temporarily.

We have free WiFi (CambWiFi) at all our libraries.

Connecting Cambridgeshire has information on using CambWifi.

Our LendIT collection includes MiFi devices with unlimited data, free for anyone to borrow for seven days. 

We’re also part of the Good Things Foundation’s National Databank, which means we provide free data SIMs to anyone aged 18+ from a low-income household.

Recipients will confirm their own eligibility. The data can be used on any unlocked device that supports a SIM card, and it’s valid for up to 12 months.

The offer includes: 

  • O2: 25GB of data, unlimited calls and texts within the UK and 50 mins of international calls; refreshes every month. 
  • Vodafone: 40GB of data and unlimited calls and texts (UK only); refreshes every month. 
  • Three: 24GB of data in total. No calls or texts provided; not refreshed. 

The National Databank is currently available at the following locations:

Learn My Way

Each of our Cambridgeshire libraries is a Digital Inclusion Hub with computers, printing facilities and helpful library staff.

We encourage library customers who are new to the Internet and computers to have a go using Learn My Way. This is free online learning to help people develop basic digital skills.

Learn My Way is provided by our partner Good Things Foundation.

Digital buddies

Many of our libraries run 1 to 1 sessions with customers who want help using a computer, laptop or tablet. These sessions are offered by our volunteer digital buddies.

If you would like to work with a digital buddy, please ask for information at your local library. You can also use our online contact form - choose 'Libraries' as the service you require. You can also call us on 0345 045 5225 - 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

If you would like to volunteer for us as a Digital Buddy, please email volunteers@cambridgeshire.gov.uk or go to the Volunteering with libraries webpage.

Concessionary bus passes provide free travel on most bus services in England for people who are eligible. You have to apply for a free bus pass - they are not issued automatically.

A family member, friend or neighbour can assist you with your application. If you have any problems applying online, you can call our Free Bus Pass team on 0345 045 1367.

How Cambridgeshire Libraries can help

Cambridgeshire Libraries have computers, printers and scanners available to help you complete your application.

We also offer face-to-face support for residents who need help with applying for or renewing their bus pass. If you need a member of staff or volunteer to help you complete the online process, you might need an appointment.

Call in at your local library to find out how we can help. Please be aware that applications processed at the library will not be carried out in a private area.

You can also make an appointment with your local library by calling 0345 045 5225.