In libraries of all sizes, there is a constant patron demand for computers. In addition to other sections on Hardware, Operating Systems, Networking & Security, and Technology Policies, these resources address the unique requirements of providing computers for public use. |
Guide to Public Access Computing Resources
The big picture
Setup for public computers
Security, maintenance and troubleshooting
Wireless networks for the public
Time, reservation, and print management
Policies for public access
Programs for the public
And remember, if you have an article or information about public access computing that would help other libraries, please contribute it to WebJunction. Member contributions help make our online and live communities stronger and are definitely appreciated!
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Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study
This 2008–2009 study assesses public access to computers, the Internet, and Internet-related services in U.S. public libraries, and the impact of library funding changes on technology deployment, and sustainability.
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IMPACT Research Overview
overview of the research framework being used for the US IMPACT studies.
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Maintaining and Sustaining Technology - Tools
From Planning for Success Cookbook. Checklists and assessment matrices to accompany the Maintaining and Sustaining Technology section.
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Maintaining and Sustaining Technology - Further Resources
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Maintaining and Sustaining Technology.
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Buying and Deploying Technology - Tools
From Planning for Success Cookbook. Checklists and assessment matrices to accompany the Buying and Deploying Technology section.
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Buying and Deploying Technology - Further Resources
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Buying and Deploying Technology.
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Deploying New Computers
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Buying and Deploying Technology.
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Disk-Cloning in Libraries
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Buying and Deploying Technology.
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How to Standardize Your IT Infrastructure
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Buying and Deploying Technology.
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IT Asset Management
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Maintaining and Sustaining Technology.
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Standardizing Your IT Infrastructure
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Buying and Deploying Technology.
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Technical Communication Basics
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Communication and Partnerships.
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Planning for Success Cookbook Overview and Toolkit
A comprehensive overview to access all sections of the newest MaintainIT Cookbook and accompanying Toolkit which provide all the details to keep your library’s technology running properly, sustain its growth, and ensure its viability.
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Does Your PAC Have Impact?
An introduction to a new research project looking at the impacts of public access computing in libraries.
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Websites and Internet Resources on Building Support for Public Access
A list of external links
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Websites and Internet Resources on Public Access Computing Around the World
A list of external links
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Websites and Internet Resources on Building Support for Public Access
A list of external links
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Websites and Internet Resources on Public Access Computing
A list of external links
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Alachua County Library District's Innovative Laptop Checkout Program
MaintainIT Library Spotlight tells how a staff of non-techies used their brainpower to dream up a creative plan that worked.
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A Tale of Two Tablets (March 2005)
When is a notebook not a notebook? And other posers for George Needham, WebJunction's riddle-buster in residence.
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Technology Support/Connections Brainstorm
A list of ideas and resources on Technology Support Ideas collected from the Rural Library Sustainability workshops, training institutes, and from other discussion areas on WebJunction.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 11, Reach Non-Traditional Library Users
Spread the word about your exciting programs and resources! Emphasizing multicultural resources and ensuring your computers are accessible are just a couple ways to encourage new communities to visit the library.
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Portable Power to the People: The Vineland Laptop Lending Program (August 2003)
Maybe checking out laptop computers to library patrons is a crazy idea. But the staff of New Jersey's Vineland Public Library thought about it -- and said, 'Why not?'
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SC Toolkit Chapter 9, Raise Funds
From the Staying Connected Toolkit, this chapter includes sections: 1. Identify fundraising opportunities 2. Approach potential funding sources 3. Conduct fundraising events 4. Resources for fundraising and grantmaking.
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Municipal Public Library N° 209 (Puqueldon, Chile)
A small Chilean island may be two ferry rides away from the mainland, but its library brings Internet access--and the world--to its doorstep.
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WebJunction's Focus on Public Access Computing Around the World
In every corner of the globe libraries are bringing computing to the public. Here's a collection of resources that explore the policies and practicalities.
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Free, Equal, and Unhampered Internet Access: A Global Perspective
This PhD thesis is an in-depth exploration of global issues in access to the Internet. Full of wonderful information about what's happening on every continent.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 4, Develop A Key Contact List
Influential community members can play a key role in supporting and promoting your programs. Be sure to keep them informed of your services and successes.
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Tour of CTC Web Resources
Libraries with public access computers are now considered Community Technology Centers (but you already knew that). Here is a list of U.S. government and private agencies serving the CTC community!!!
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Staying Connected Toolkit, Chapters 8-16
'Staying Connected' is a toolkit of activities designed to help libraries engage local communities in their technology programs and enlist their help in sustaining them. In addition to specific steps on how to gain financial, political and technical support in your state and community, the kit also includes 'good ideas,' examples of successful programs created by libraries around the country. This section includes Chapters 8 - 16.
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Staying Connected Toolkit, Chapters 1-7
'Staying Connected' is a toolkit of activities designed to help libraries engage local communities in their technology programs and enlist their help in sustaining them. In addition to specific steps on how to gain financial, political and technical support in your state and community, the kit also includes 'good ideas,' examples of successful programs created by libraries around the country. This section includes Chapters 1 - 7.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 8, Update the Community
Publicize and promote your library and its services with a newsletter. This tool will teach you how to maintain a high profile in your community.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 7, Conduct Media Relations
When you're ready to tell your community about the computers in your library, alert the press! Here's how the media can help support your program.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 6, Plan Events
Create awareness of your programs by inviting community members to view and use your programs. This guide will walk you through planning and hosting events.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 15, Resource List
This list comprises Web sites referenced in the Staying Connected toolkit.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 3, Collect Data
Developing client profiles and understanding their computer needs is an important step in facilitating a long-term relationship with your patrons and will strengthen your outreach efforts immensely.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 1, How to Use "Staying Connected"
So you want to start a public access computer program? This tool will help you develop and sustain your efforts, so read this chapter for the Overview.
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Public Access Computing in Bulgaria
Librarians in Colorado and Bulgaria are working together to transform Bulgarian libraries from "museums of books" into the information centers of their communities.
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Bibliored: Columbia's Innovative Library Network
Bibliored, the network of public libraries in Bogota, is central to providing access to digital information in a city where over 80 percent of the population lives in poverty.
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E-Powering the People: South Africa's Smart Cape Access Project
South Africa's Cape Town Public Libraries bridge the digital divide with public access computing.
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A Knowledge Centre for the Community: A New Role for the Public Library
Kay Poustie describes public libraries in Australia and the United Kingdom taking on new roles so that they become central to economic development in their communities.
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La Biblioteca Pública N° 209 (Puqueldon, Chile)
Una pequeña isla chilena puede estar a dos viajes en ferry del continente, pero el mundo llega al pueblo a través de la conexión a Internet de la biblioteca pública.
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12 Real Access Criteria
For people to have meaningful access to information and communication technologies 12 key factors have to be addressed.
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Barriers to Public Access Computing - A Global View
In his work for IFLA Stuart Hamilton has done an extensive investigation of common issues libraries around world face in delivering public access computing. Here's a summary of his work.
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Poster: What can you do with this computer?
This poster gives a basic overview of desktop icons and the types of tasks that Office applications can help users accomplish.
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Poster: Save to Floppy
Describes media that can be used for saving work.
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Poster: Logging on to the Computer
Directions for logging on to a computer.
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Poster: Never Used a Mouse
A mouse tutorial for new computer users.
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SC Toolkit Chapter 10, Develop Effective Partnerships
Libraries and partnerships go hand-in-hand. Working with local agencies can be mutually beneficial. This guide will help you identify and cultivate partnerships.
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Those Darned Users!
Librarian and librarian.net blogger Jessamyn West explains how to serve your users without sacrificing safety, privacy, or your sanity.
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