The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

Laptop Docking at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

As a free service, The Library for the Performing Arts offers laptop connections to the Internet via the Library's Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN). Docking stations are available at designated seats in all reading rooms at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. No reservations are necessary.

To use the Internet, you must configure your laptop according to the following instructions. If you experience difficulty, you may speak to a librarian to schedule an appointment with a technical representative for assistance. Assistance is available ONLY for Microsoft Windows 95/98/NT/2000 operating systems. However, the docking stations will allow connections with certain computers using Apple Macintosh or other Microsoft operating systems.

Hardware Configuration | Software Configuration | PC/Windows Users | Apple Macintosh Users

Limitations and Disclaimers

Required Laptop Hardware Configuration

You must have a Network Interface Card that is properly installed. Your laptop may already have, or you may need to obtain, a 10Base-T Ethernet adapter with an RJ-45 female connector suitable for your laptop model. The accompanying software drivers for your adapter must be properly configured and installed. You will also need to bring an RJ-45 Ethernet cable to connect from your laptop to our docking station.

Required Laptop Software Configuration

You must have pre-installed any Internet-related software you wish to use, such as a Web browser (i.e., Internet Explorer or Netscape). Browsers and other Internet tools are often pre-installed on new laptops.

For PC/Windows Users:

If you are a PC/Windows user, TCP/IP protocol should already be installed on your computer. Ethernet access requires only that your TCP client package be configured to obtain addresses automatically from a server. The procedures to install and configure TCP/IP and required software vary by operating system. Following are typical steps for configuration:

  • Open the "Network" icon in the Control Panel and find your way to the Protocol settings to add TCP/IP
  • Set IP address to obtain an IP address automatically
  • Leave all other fields blank
  • Restart the device for the changes to take effect and open your browser

If your browser will load web pages, you have configured your laptop correctly.

For Apple Macintosh PowerBook or iBook Users:

TCP/IP protocol is pre-installed on computers running OS9 or above. Computers running OS 8 or lower must have the MacTCP Control Panel installed.

To configure on laptops running OS X or above:

  • Open the "Network" icon in System Preferences, choose "New Location" and give a name to the location
  • Choose "Built-in Ethernet" from the Show pop-up menu (the "Configure" menu prior to OSX 10.1)
  • Click the TCP/IP tab, if necessary
  • Choose "Using DHCP" from the Configure pop-up menu
  • Type "nypl.org" in the Search Domains field (all other fields are blank)
  • Click "Apply now"

To configure on laptops running OS 9 or lower:

  • Open the TCP/IP or MacTCP Control Panel
  • Choose "Ethernet" or "Built-in Ethernet" from the Connect Via pop-up menu
  • Choose "Using DHCP" from the Configure pop-up menu
  • Type "nypl.org" in the Search Domains field (all other fields are blank)
  • Close the control panel and save when prompted

If your browser will load web pages, you have configured your laptop correctly.

Limitations and Disclaimers

  • Assistance with laptop docking is offered by Library technical staff on an appointment basis only and only for Microsoft Windows 95/98/NT or 2000 operating systems.
  • Due to insurance limitations and warranties, Library staff cannot install Ethernet network interface cards on users' laptops.
  • If you would like to purchase an Ethernet card to connect through the Library's network, local computer stores sell and install these products.
  • The Library does not download, provide, or install any software for laptop users.
  • Laptop owners may use the connections during all hours the Library is open.
  • No guarantee is provided that a laptop will be able to make a successful connection, even if the above software configurations are installed, since many factors (including other software packages on the laptop) may interfere with a connection.
  • The Library assumes no responsibility for any alterations or interference with a laptop's configuration, operation, or data files resulting from connection to the Library's network.
  • The Library assumes no responsibility for damage, theft, or loss of any kind to a user's equipment, software, data files, or other personal property brought into or used at the Library's facilities.