[12026] in Public-Access_Computer_Systems_Forum
Printers for Internet terminals
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Poplawski Andrew)
Fri Feb 20 20:15:21 1998
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 1998 17:09:55 -0600
From: Poplawski Andrew <agap1@nsh.library.ns.ca>
To: PACS-L@LISTSERV.UH.EDU
Reply-To: Public-Access Computer Systems Forum <PACS-L@LISTSERV.UH.EDU>
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
With apologies for any cross-postings:
Greetings; The Halifax Regional Library is installing additional public
access Internet stations in its 13 branches. We are installing printers
with these and are debating what would be the best kind for our purposes.
While we originally were looking at some kind of debit card set-up, we
are not in a position to have this ready before the workstations and
pprinters are installed, so we are looking at providing free printing in
the interim.
Thes printers would be attached directly to the Internet
machines. We don't have the option of having all printing being done at a
printerd located at a staff desk
Our options are dot matrix, ink/bubble jet or laser printers. We
are aware of the relative advantages and disadvantages of each, but would
like to hear from other libraries which they have chosen. Some of our
branches have previously used dot-matrix printers with our stand-alone
CDROM workstations, and have suffered the usual problems of paper jams and
the attendant staff time necessary to clear them.
We appreciate finding out the following from you if you have a
similar set-up.
1. What kind of printer do you use for public access printers?
2. How often do paper jams or other problems requiring staff assistance
occur ( not counting instruction)?
3. What other kinds of problems have you experienced with your printers
(mechanical failure etc.)?
4. What type of printer would you recommend if you are not satisfied with
your current printers?
5. If you charge for printing, what is the cost and what kind of payment
system do you have?
Please send replies and any comments, anecdotes, facetiae etc. directly
to my address.
Thanks to you all in advance.
Andrew Poplawski,
Branch Operations Manager,
Halifax Regional Library,
60 Alderney Drive,
Dartmouth, N.S.
B27 4P8
PHONE (902)490-5888
FAX (902)490-5889
