Internet access at the Oamaru and Palmerston libraries used to cost $2 for 15 minutes, but the Aotearoa People's Network has provided 10 new computers for Waitaki libraries, wireless access at the Oamaru library and a free service.
Library staff were trained last week to pass their knowledge on to users.
Five computers were added to the Oamaru library, three to Palmerston and two to Kurow.
A free wireless network has also been made available at Oamaru and Palmerston, allowing people to use their laptops to go online as well.
The computers are supported by National Library staff and funded through the New Zealand Digital Strategy.
They are part of a nationwide initiative to improve free public access to electronic information and communication technologies.
More than 100 libraries are now participating.
The new computers can be used for tasks including accessing the internet, word processing, talking on Skype, checking Facebook, and downloading and editing music and images.
"Having these free computers at the public libraries means it is easy for everyone to access and keep up with new trends in information and communication technology," Waitaki library manager Lorraine Weston-Webb said yesterday.
