[12247] in Public-Access_Computer_Systems_Forum
Providing anchor points to allow library patrons to secure their
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Graham Dawson)
Wed Jun 10 20:03:38 1998
Date: Wed, 10 Jun 1998 17:32:16 -0500
From: Graham Dawson <g.dawson@qut.edu.au>
To: PACS-L@LISTSERV.UH.EDU
Reply-To: Public-Access Computer Systems Forum <PACS-L@LISTSERV.UH.EDU>
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
How does your library meet the need of patrons who bring their own laptop
computer into the library? It seems to me they might reasonably expect some
hardware fixture, so they can lock the laptop computer down on a desk or
carrel.
Laptop computers left unattended in a library (even for the briefest of
moments) are in serious danger of being stolen. For example the patron goes
to consult the reference shelf and returns to find their expensive computer
has walked out the door.
What piece of hardware should libraries be supplying to allow patrons to
secure their own laptop computer to a carrel or study desk in the library?
I'm thinking perhaps of a secure chrome u-loop, anchor chain and padlock,
or similar device. Is there a standard fixture that patrons could
reasonably expect their libraries to offer?
I'm think we should offer a small number of study carrels equipped with:
a) secure anchor point
b) power supply
c) data jacks
I think c) data jacks will rely on dynamic allocation of IP addresses in
our ATM environment. If a list member has experience of this, I'd also
appreciate your e-mail on this topic.
Thanks, Graham
Graham Dawson E-mail: g.dawson@qut.edu.au
Librarian, Bibliographic Services Voice: + 61 7 3864 3811
Queensland University of Technology Library
Victoria Park Road Fax: + 61 7 3864 3994
KELVIN GROVE QLD 4059 Brisbane Australia
<http://wwwlib.qut.edu.au/about/staff/g_dawson.html>
