Library
Now Offers Laptops For Check Out
Newly Available Computers Provide Convenient Option
by Matthew Green
Its
110 degrees, the guy next to you hasnt moved in three days
and begins to drool on the keyboard, and a concoction of mysterious
odors permeates the room. Ah, Mudd computer labs during times of
high academic stress a pleasant place to spend ones
time, most would agree.
For those who dont own computers and have been forced to endure
the trauma of a packed computer lab, a new, more manageable alternative
exists. Students can now check out Macintosh iBooks from the Mudd
Library circulation desk. Eight are currently available for use
anywhere within the building for up to 4 hours. They are all equipped
with wireless access to the campus network as well as a large number
of software options.
Although
Mudd began its lending program at the beginning of the semester,
it remains a largely unknown privilege. Demand has not yet risen
as projected.
The eight laptops were given to the library by the Center for Information
Technology (CIT), who along with the language lab staff, have helped
configure the software. The intention of lending out the computers
to students is to increase the accessibility and convenience of
technologies in the library environment, for either research initiatives
or general use.
The flexibility that it offers
will give more people
more efficiency, Allison Gould, Head of Circulation said.
The library is a good place to be providing this service.
Gould also noted that the addition of widely accessible portable
technologies is occurring in libraries all over the country.
Ray
English, Director of Libraries, spoke highly of the program, which
is now in its pilot stage. He expressed the desire for the laptops
to be used on a regular basis. If the program is successful, there
is interest in expanding the program to other libraries on campus
if funds become available. English also emphasized the importance
of the laptops as a research resource.
There are certain limits on what you can do anchored to a
workstation. It is nice to have the mobility, particularly when
doing library work, he said. He also noted that portable computers
have become the most popular purchases in the computer market and
that not every student has the same access to them as they do to
desktops. This program, in his view, will somewhat help bridge that
gap by making the machines available to everyone.
The circulation desk staff is always looking for new ways
to improve our service to our parons, and this seems to be a great
new service for students, Peggi Ignagni, the new Circulation
Supervisor said. I like the idea that laptops are now available
to all students regardless of their financial situation. Ignagni
pointed out the programs great potential, as a way for students
to enjoy the comfort of Mudds most remote corners while
also having access to network service.
I
think it is very appropriate for the circulation desk to loan out
all types of materials besides the usual books. These iBooks are
just another way to obtain information, which is what a library
is all about, she said.
Ahsan
Tanveer, who works at the Circulation Desk and checks out the iBooks,
noted that the machines do have several minor shortcomings. Some
students have complained that the computers run out of power too
quickly and are too slow. In addition, they are not connected to
printers. Nevertheless, Tanveer expressed his overall enthusiasm
for the new program.
They are a sure assistance to someone whos writing an
assignment and wants to think in a very peaceful environment,
he said. That person can go anywhere in the library and work
effectively.
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