Often when I need a terminal at the library to do research, they are all being used by people on non-research websites (AKA Facebook, Myspace, etc). Is there a way to limit the ability of library computers to access non-research websites, so students who need to legitimately use the computers can have access to library resources?

Thanks for sharing your concerns and frustrations about finding a computer in our Libraries. Part of our role as is to provide a good space and the resources for study and research. But the Library is also a meeting space, a social space, a place to find some respite from a hectic schedule, an academic support service, and even sometimes a place to find entertainment – on a computer. To support so many diverse needs we offer a large number of computers with unrestricted access so students and others can check their email, write a paper, update their facebook status, do research on a library database or watch a soccer video.

That’s why we do not impose limits on what students and others can do on our Library computers. Yes, there are students using the computers for chat, to play games or other forms of what you might call “goofing off”. But no one can always tell what a person is doing just from what’s on the screen. The student on facebook may be communicating with classmates about an assignment. The student watching a television program or part of a movie on YouTube may be doing so for legitimate class work. Everyone in our Libraries is entitled to their time on the university equipment.

That said, facilitating research is clearly one of our core missions. If you are in Paley Library and there are no computers available and you see what looks like non-research activity going on, please proceed to the “Ask Here” Desk on the first floor. Those working at the “Ask Here” Desk often ask students if they will kindly give up their computer to someone who needs to conduct research. We find that students are likely to comply with that request.

Finally, please be sure to look for an open computer on the upper levels of Paley where we have added additional equipment or consider borrowing a laptop at the Tuttleman Circulation Desk.