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Public access to computers
This fall our College had to implement stricter control on our computer systems so that now everyone has to sign on with a username and password. This has caused us some problems with the members of the public who come in to use the library computers. We have had to restrict their access to just a few stations, which is unfortunate, and are now running into problems with having to patrol these few stations so that there is fair access to them for everyone. How do other AACL members handle public access? Do the users sign in? Do they have to get community memberships? How do you monitor the time? With the recent launch of the LHCADL we want to be able to provide public access to the databases but are running into some logistical concerns. I know that many of you have had these security measures in place for years so I am sure you have already dealt with this issue - your experience and expertise will be appreciated.
Thanks again,
Keith
- Keith Walker's blog
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Public Access
At ACAD, we have had issues with inappropriate use of computer work stations in our Learning Commons. We had a genetic Guest log on with a Password which was posted at each machine.
In our attempt to deal with this we now ask all guests to 'register' with us. Registering requires filling out a form which gives us address and contact information. We then require that they sign our registration form which by signing, they are saying that they agree to our code of conduct. They register at our Circulation desk and then we give them the guest password for that day. Our IT staff have been able to generate a list of daily changing passwords for me. This allows our 'guests' to access any one of our computers.
This has worked very well for us. Hope this helps,
Public access to computers
Hi Keith,
The SAIT Library has experienced problems with unwelcome guest use of our workstations for about a year. These guests are unwelcome because the majority of them were street people who accessed unauthorized web sites such as pornography or gaming sites. Our first step was to restrict guest log on to about twelve workstations within view of our information desk. These computers had a posted username without a password. That didn't deter the number of unwelcome guest users. Our next step was to require photo ID from guests and to assign a staff password to these machines. This requires considerable staff time because staff need to walk to the workstation with each guest, log on the computer and then store the ID card with a card identifying the workstation. Our latest step adopted in September was to restrict guest access to four counter-level workstations and one disabled access workstation. This has reduced the number of unwelcomed guest visits but has also disadvantaged welcomed guests such as alumni.
I hope this helps,
Dave Weber, SAIT Library.
public access to computers
Hi Keith,
At Mount Royal, we have a number of stations that are designated "Quick Access" and require no username/password. These are intended to provide access to the general public without requiring a campus username, although they get used heavily by students when our other, log-on only stations are busy - which is almost always. I think we have about 6 - 8 of these stations. We do not police them heavily, other than monitoring local schoolkids playing computer games. If our students are waiting to use a computer, we will intervene. We do not have a sign-in process, they are simply first come, first served, on a walk-up basis. These stations provide cash printing - while the log-on only stations require users to have a pre-paid printing account on campus.
Good luck!
Alice
generic library cards
Hi Keith, we require everyone who uses our computers to sign on with a username and password. Our patrons can authenticate using their library card. Members of the public need to obtain a temporary library card at the front desk which has a barcode they can use for their session. Once their session is over they just return the card to the front desk.
We have been using this system for over 5 years now, and we no longer actively 'police' the public computers at all.
james...