Public Access Computers

Patrons may reserve one of two IBM compatible computers for the purpose of word processing and other limited applications. Both computers also have Internet access and their own black-and-white laser printer.

Before using either of these computers, you must sign up at the reference desk with a library card or valid ID.

Available:

Two IBM compatible PCs with: Microsoft Office ’97 (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint); CD-ROM and 3.5” floppy drives; black & white printer. One of the PCs is also equipped with a flatbed scanner and accompanying software.

TIME SLOTS: You are allowed to reserve 2 hours per day. Patrons more than 5 minutes late must forfeit their reserved slot to walk-ins. Please make sure that your work is finished, saved and/or printed by the end of your time slot.

TIME ABUSES: If you are expected to leave your time slot and fail to comply you will receive a written warning from the library. We reserve the right to suspend those who repeat policy infractions.

AGE REQUIREMENT: Patrons aged 8 or younger must be accompanied by a parent at all times.

EQUIPMENT/SOFTWARE USE: Display of offensive material or tampering with equipment is serious violation of library policy. See the official library policies for more information. Only software installed by library staff is allowed. You may not install or access any other software or files on these computers.

SAVING WORK: You may only save your work to a floppy disk in the A:\ drive. If you do not have a disk, 3.5” floppy disks are available at the desk for $2.00 each.

PRINTING: Printouts are 15¢ per page. You must pay this even if you use your own paper.

ORIENTATIONS: The Internet/Technology Librarian may be available for a brief (5-10 minute) orientation on basic computer operation. Orientations must be arranged in advance. Call (585) 247-6446, ext. 285 for more information.

Thanks go to the Friends of the Gates Public Library for their purchase of much of this equipment.

Why does the Gates Public Library provide public access computers?

The public access computers are intended for use when no other computer is available. Meant to bridge the "digital divide", the computers are not part of the library's primary mission as a “Popular Materials Library” and “Reference Library”. As a secondary service, however, they fulfill the library's roles in supporting both formal education and the needs of the community.

Availability:

Because they are a special service, patrons must share these computers. They will not always be available, and use of the computers must be governed by library rules. This includes giving the computer up when the allotted time is over. Rules for use have been made as flexible as possible, but must be adhered to. The Library Board's Materials Selection and Availability Policy addresses the rules for use of the public access computers. It states that the rules governing use of the computers are made by administrative decisions. These decisions are meant to protect the majority from individuals who may wish to monopolize the computers, and to ensure that the conditions for use are flexible enough to be convenient for most people. Repeated violations of the rules will result in disciplinary action such as temporary suspension of use privileges.

Technical Support and Training:

Patrons who wish to use the public access computers must come prepared to be self-sufficient and only request assistance if there is a software or hardware problem beyond their control. Some library staff can provide limited help, but they are not always available. In addition, the schedule does not make time available for extensive computer training or support. If you need computer training, please ask the Reference Librarian for information about classes offered in the community.

Questions about any of these guidelines may be referred to the Library Director.