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posted 05/06/2009
Public library use across the nation is widely reported as higher than ever. Use is up when you look at patron visits, circulation, computer access, and attendance of programming and classes. Of particular note coming from all public libraries is a significant increase in use of public computers and Internet access. From a recent news release from our State Library in the past year alone the time public Internet computers are in use has increased by 9.74% and number of public Internet computer users has increased by 13.77%. Here at our library we are seeing this same rise. Our computers are an incredibly popular resource.

This week to help better manage this extremely well used service, we installed computer reservation software. If you have visited other libraries while traveling you have probably used a similar software system; these software systems are becoming the norm. Up until now we have had a paper sign up form partnered with an honor system of sorts.

This new software will help allow everyone equal access to our shared computing resources. The system we selected ensures fair access while allowing patrons the time they need to complete their work. It helps to make clear our policies and procedures for computer use reducing potential for confusion, frustration, and conflict. Know that this system does not track individuals Internet usage nor would the Library condone such monitoring. Our privacy policy extends to our computing resources and we maintain the belief in our patron s right to the freedom of information.

Our first two days have gone extremely well. So well in fact, that I am taking it as an indication of the need for this system. Come in and check it out and let us know what you think.


Laura Tretter
San Juan Island Library
360.378.2798
ltretter@sjlib.org

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