Birmingham libraries offer free software

The initiative, which could save users hundreds of pounds on software license fees, was highlighted by Birmingham City Council deputy leader Paul Tilsley and Ray Hassall, cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture, at a presentation at Birmingham Central Library this week.

Open Source software is a comprehensive range of computer software, which is free to use. It is compatible with all the main commercial office software applications, so files created using the software can easily be shared, transferred and emailed between different computers and operating systems.

Applications include Firefox, a safe and secure web browser, and Open Office, a free suite of office applications for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and other business and home office requirements.

Digital Birmingham has packaged up the software on CD and it is being offered free on a first come, first served basis at libraries throughout Birmingham, with library staff on hand to provide advice. 

Councillor Paul Tilsley said:

"We want more people to enjoy the benefits that access to technology brings, and Open Source software is one way to help people get their foot on the digital ladder. The Open Source programme is really important in making the general public aware of the availability of free computer software."