All Des Moines Public Library locations provide free access to computers. A library card is required to use a public computer, and you can get a guest pass for computer use. You can use the computers to access the internet, as well as a scanner, for up to two hours. If no one is waiting to use the computer, guests can ask a library staff member for additional time. Internet workstations shut down automatically 15 minutes before closing time at each library.
Children’s areas also have AWE computers, which offer games and activities to help a child grow their literacy skills.
Central Library also has computers for public use to access the Foundation Directory Online, as well as a computer with JAWS (Job Access with Speech) and a computer screen reader program to assist visually impaired users. Central Library also offers microfilm readers.
North Side Library provides Chromebooks for checkout for use inside the library.
All libraries have printers that allow you to print on-site. All libraries have photocopiers and fax machines available for public use.
| Location | Public Printers* | Photocopiers* | Fax/Scan** | Sell Fax Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central | Color printer on 2nd floor B&W in Youth area |
B&W / Color on 2nd floor | Yes | Yes |
| East | Color printer | B&W only | Yes | No |
| Forest | Color printer | B&W only | Yes | Yes |
| Franklin | Color printer in Adult area B&W in Youth area |
B&W only | Yes | No |
| North | Color printer | B&W only | Yes | No |
| South | Color printer | B&W only | Yes | Yes |
*Print and Photocopy Prices per page:
Print: $0.25 (B&W or color)
B&W photocopy: $0.25
Color photocopy: $0.25
**Fax/Scan Prices
Domestic: (USA, Canada, and Caribbean) - $1.75 first page, $1.00 each additional page.
Scan to email: (USA, Canada, and Caribbean) - $1.75 first page, $1.00 each additional page.
International: $3.95 first page, $3.45 each additional page.
You can print to a library computer using your personal desktop, laptop or mobile device. The cost is $0.25 per page. For more details and instructions, see our Wireless Printing page.
All Des Moines Public Library locations provide free Wi-Fi access. Connect to the DMPLGuest network, open your browser, and agree to the terms of use. No password is required.
Technology help is available in person by attending one of our free technology help classes, or you can contact us with your questions about your device, one of our resources or collections, and more.
At Central Library, you can receive one-on-one basic job search help - filling out a job application, updating or building your resume - by scheduling a 30-minute appointment with a librarian. Call (515) 283-4152, ext. 3, or email reference@dmpl.org.
Our North Side Library also offers computer classes. Please see our event calendar for upcoming days and times.
You can use our Learning Express Library, which features online tutorials, practice tests, and eBooks to help with everything from basic computer and tech skills to job search and workplace skills improvements, career certification and licensure exam prep, college and grad school entrance test prep, and more.
The Central Library's Digital Creation Station is a PC with more than a dozen specialized Adobe programs. Learn more and sign up at the Adobe Creation Station page.