These days it's commonplace to go straight to Google when you have a question, and this was true in fiction even before there was a Google. Or an Internet, for that matter. When in need of plot critical Exposition characters will frequently find a computer and use it to fill the role of Mr. Exposition. They may type their questions and read answers on a screen, but typically it's a computer with a voice, (monotone or not) and an ability to answer freeform questions in plain spoken English. Because of these traits the computer will frequently at least be a Magical Computer and possibly even a true Artificial Intelligence.