Technology, Staff side

Staff Computer stations

Staff computer stations are networked together but separately from the public computers.  Using a T-1 connection, the computers run very efficiently.  The director's computer, however, is run off the WiFi connection.

The staff is equipped with Dell OptiPlex all-in-one computers with larger monitors.  Jennie feels that eliminating the separate desktop CPU allows more space for the larger monitors (I believe they are 21") at the front desk, giving ease of viewing for their staff.

Ergonomics

Jennie wants her staff to be comfortable while working, so they have ergonomic mouse and keyboard pads and adjustable height chairs.

The library proper also has had some overhaul towards ergonomics, but I'll state some examples later.

Maintenance and Repair to technology - and more on policy

Library technology is maintained and repaired in this order:  Staff takes a stab at troubleshooting, then the director gets involved (and usually resolves the solution).  Jennie has an outside vendor that she will call in if the need arises, but has found with the Malware bytes and AVG Virus protection she has very low incidence.  The staff is trained to install and update virus software and do regular maintenance.  Each staff member is able to do something that contributes to the whole process, whether it disc repair, clearing the cache or updating software.  

Jennie vehemently is against filtering software on their public access computers and laptops (with the exception of the children's tablets previously mentioned).   "I am a librarian, not a censor, nor would I ever take a job as a censor."  She believes that the gain to access of information outweighs the risks.  "They simply don't filter effectively."  Education goes into patron education through use of "discretion" and parent monitoring. 

Front Desk - Copies and Fax

The front desk is located directly opposite the main entrance and has a warm and welcoming staff where they offer fax service.  (you can see by the picture, the staff is camera shy...)  In the background of the photo, you will see a patron browsing DVD's on the movable rack.