[12255] in Public-Access_Computer_Systems_Forum
Re: Providing anchor points to allow library patrons to secure their
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Bill Kneedler)
Fri Jun 12 21:14:31 1998
Date: Fri, 12 Jun 1998 16:16:35 -0500
From: Bill Kneedler <bkneedle@lib.ci.phoenix.az.us>
In-Reply-To: <3.0.5.16.19980610180130.53aff32a@pop.qut.edu.au>
To: PACS-L@LISTSERV.UH.EDU
Reply-To: Public-Access Computer Systems Forum <PACS-L@LISTSERV.UH.EDU>
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
We haven't gotten around to it yet, but my hope is to eventually provide
laptop access to the public segments of our library's Ethernet using DHCP
to dynamically assign IP addresses. There is already considerable
firewalling between the public, staff, and central computer site portions
of our network, so security concerns have already been addressed. No doubt
there will be technical problems due to individual computer setups and
hardware, and those will require assistance. If we do not proceed with
this service, I suspect it will be the burden of assistance on the public
services staff that will kill it. However, the service would be much more
convenient for some library users, and for every laptop brought in, the
library has saved the expense of providing one PC.
Some kind of anchor would be a nice feature, if it were strong and
vandal-resistant, but I think it would be prudent to stop short of
actually providing a lock and key for two reasons. First, it would be a
maintenance headache (as are locking storage bins). Second, if a library
provides "security" and that security is compromised, the library will be
blamed. The closest comparison that comes to mind is bike parking.
Libraries typically provide bike racks that are theft resistant and are
good anchors, but the users provide the locks and keys.
I don't doubt that our legal department will advise us to prominently post
notices in such areas that the security of laptops is the owner's
responsibility, not the library's.
On Wed, 10 Jun 1998, Graham Dawson wrote:
> ----------------------------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>
>
// Bill Kneedler E-mail: \\
|| Library Info. Systems Manager bkneedle@lib.ci.phoenix.az.us ||
|| Phoenix Public Library ||
|| 1221 North Central Avenue Public Access Catalog: ||
|| Phoenix, AZ 85004-1867 pac.phx.lib.az.us OR ||
|| TEL: (602) 262-4799 pac.lib.ci.phoenix.az.us ||
\\ FAX: (602) 534-4382 //
