David Robinson

robinson@ulibnet.mtsu.edu

Don Craig

Library

Open computer labs

Library Circulation Desk

New Technology

N/A

Laptop computers for student use in the library. The library currently offers 18 Dell laptop computers for students to check out for use anywhere in the library. From January through June 2004 these laptops were loaned out 2426 times. Between July and Dec. 2004, they were loaned out 2860 times. In the Fall, the curculation department conducted a customer survey. The responses were overwhelmingly positive. The biggest complaint was that there weren't enough laptops available. With the extra batteries and external battery chargers we are able to keep these laptops in constant circulation with no downtime for discharged batteries. The computers will have nylon cases which will help to protect the laptops as they are carried around the building. we propose a 4 year warranty with "complete care". The "complete care" coverage costs a little more, but with that care, Dell will replace or repair the laptop even if it is dropped or otherwise damaged by a student. Drive Shield is the product used throughout the library for hard drive protection.