City of Corvallis      Español  
FAQs - Technology

How do I use the library's wireless network?

 

All branches of the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library now offer wireless access. To use the wireless network you must have a wireless computer or other device that uses the IEEE 802.11b and/or 802.11g WiFi standard. These networks provide speed up to 2 mbps (megabits/second). The wireless network is accessible from most locations in the library and for some short distances outside the building.

At the main library in Corvallis the wireless network is available 24/7. At the branch libraries in Philomath, Monroe and Alsea it is available 24/7 except 1-4am each morning. The wireless network is unsecured and you are solely responsible for virus/spyware protection on your device.

To connect to the wireless network using a Windows XP computer, take the following steps:

  • After you turn on your computer, double click on the wireless connection icon which should appear in the lower right taskbar. If it's not there go to Start-Settings-Control Panel-Network Connections-Wireless Network Connection and double click on that icon.

  • Click on the "View Wireless Networks" button. You may see one or more wireless networks listed. Choose the one called "Library" - unsecured wireless network.

  • After a few seconds it should connect. If you have used it before it may already say connected. If you are located far from the wireless antenna it may take longer to connect.

  • Open your web browser. You will see a "Corvallis-Benton County Public Library Wireless Use Agreement"page. After reading the agreement, scroll to the bottom to click Accept and your browser will be redirected to its usual home page. If you do not accept, you will not be able to use the network.

    There is no time limit on how long you may use the network, but after 12 hours you will be prompted to accept the user agreement again. In most situations this should not occur twice in the same day.

 

Some possible wireless connection problems:

  • The wireless service is not started on your computer. Go to Start-Settings-Control Panel-Administrative Tools-Services and make sure the Wireless Zero Configuration service is started.

  • Your wireless device is set to automatically connect to another wireless network. Go to Start-Settings-Control Panel-Network Connections-Wireless Network Connection-View Wireless Networks. Click on the "Change Advanced Settings" link. In the "Preferred Networks" window make sure the "Library" network is the first choice.

  • Your TCP/IP connection is not set to automatically obtain an IP address (DHCP). Go to Start-Settings-Control Panel-Network Connections-Wireless Network Connection-View Wireless Networks. On the General tab highlight "Internet Protocol TCP/IP" and click on Properties. The "Obtain an IP address automatically" choice should be checked. The "Obtain DNS server address automatically" choice should also be checked.

  • Linux users may have trouble connecting because of a bug in one of the Linux dhcp clients. This can be fixed with the following patch: https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/dhcp3/+bug/69183


Contact

John Donel

at 541-766-6457 for more information about the Library's wireless networks.

 

Corvallis-Benton County Public Library
Wireless Use Agreement

Use of the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library (CBCPL) wireless network means that you understand and agree to the terms of the CBCPL Code of Conduct and Internet Access Policy. Failure to comply with either of these policies can lead to suspension of library privileges and/or prosecution.

In addition, use of the CBCPL wireless network implies understanding of and agreement with the following:

1- I understand that the CBCPL wireless network is an "open network" which means that information transmitted on this network is not encrypted. As a result CBCPL does not guarantee the privacy of information you transfer over the network or Internet.

2- I understand that connecting to the CBCPL wireless network is at my own risk and I agree that CBCPL shall have no liability for any damages, direct or indirect, occurring as a result of the use of the CBCPL wireless network. Virus protection and the security of information stored on or transmitted by your wireless device is your responsibility.

3- I agree that I will not use the CBCPL wireless network unlawfully. This includes, but is not limited to, using CBCPL resources to violate copyright agreements, federal or state obscenity laws, harass others through the Internet, or attempt to compromise the security of any other computers or networks.

4- I understand that CBCPL staff do not provide any technical assistance for wireless connectivity and that I am solely responsible for connecting and configuring my own equipment.

5- I understand that CBCPL cannot guarantee the signal quality, bandwidth availability or any specific Internet site access at any time. In addition printing services are not available to wireless users.

6- I understand that earphones must be used if sound is to be activated through a wireless computer.

7- I agree that if I do not comply with any of these rules, I will be held liable for any damage my actions may cause and understand that my privilege to use the CBCPL wireless computer network may be revoked.