Managing Public Access Computers in a Small and/or Rural Library

Supplemental material for a chat on the ARSL website, March 20, 2003

by Rich Loomis, Information Services Librarian, Adams County Library System, Gettysburg, PA

Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

*Provide access to library resources

Interface Characteristics

Hardware Requirements

How Many to provide

Tech Support

Filtering

Physical Security

Network Security

Network Security

Public Access Computers Security Programs

 

 

 

 

Abstract

This chat will be a practical workshop covering issues and technologies involved in running a real-world public-access computer operation in your small or rural library.  Computer workstations intended for public use come with a unique set of requirements.  They provide access to a wide variety of resources and must be impervious to tampering or accidentally being changed by library users.  Their security is a major concern.  In the workshop we will look at several alternative approaches for managing public-access computers.  Hardware and software products available for securing public computers will be discussed.  Topics covered will include technical support issues, staff training, dealing with the public, developing policies and training, and managing staff.

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*Provide access to library resources

  • nOnline catalog
  • nDatabases
  • *Web-based resources (ie. internet, etc)
  • *CD-ROM resources 
  • *Mail, chat, Word Processing (optional)
  • *Printing capability 
    • Library workstations must be able to print
    • Network printer vs. local printer (attached to PC)
    • Ink Jet vs. Laser
    • Black & White vs. Color
    • Free / Fee (Economy printing reduces toner/cartridge consumption)
    • Enforce payment for printing
    • Charge the same for photocopying (if applicable)

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Interface characteristics

*Secure
  • nMust not allow users to gain unauthorized access to network and computer systems
  • nNot use computer to attack other systems
*Stable
  • nInterface cannot be changed by users
  • nCan’t install, delete, applications; change configurations

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Hardware Requirements

  • *Standard Desktop Computer (is fine)
  • *17” display (recommended) 
  • *Fast network connection (metered T, Full T 1, Cable modem, 56 k is OK, but not recommended unless that is all that is available)
  • *Commodity-level: processor, disk drives, CD-ROM/DVD, etc.
  • Printer

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How many to provide

  • Limited by space and funding

  • If lucky enough may be donated (Gates, local agency, businesses, etc.)

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Tech Support

  • We're not all technologically savvy, so we may need to look to volunteers, local business, schools, etc. for folks who can help us.

  • Balance Library Staff Time

  • Preventive maintenance

  • Basic Troubleshooting will save $$

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Filtering

  • *Major political issue (varies everywhere!)
  • *Technically possible within limitations
  • *Requires ongoing maintenance and support
  • *Movement toward server-based solutions
    •  nFilter at the network level not the workstation

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Physical Security

  • *Reduce vulnerability to theft
  • *Keyboards, mice easily removed
  • *Lock-down cables available
  • *Theft-prevention devices add to expense of equipment, complicates maintenance
  • *Balance risk with costs of prevention
  • *Part of overall library security strategy

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Network Security

  • *Important concern – increasing dangers and risks
  • *Protect library/organizational computing environment
  • *Prevent attack of external systems
  • *Deny access to unauthorized systems

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Network Security Techniques

  • *Do not allow administrative access to local workstation operating system
  • *Avoid open access to network access tools: telnet, ftp, etc.
  • *Do not provide access to command prompt
  • *Auto-login works well
  • *Maintain current OS, browser, and application patches
  • *Refresh OS installation regularly

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Public Access Computers Security Programs

Not always the silver bullet solution, but usually helps.

  • Everybody's Menu Builder

    • A secure menu system for your public computers

    • Relatively inexpensive.

  • WinU

    • WinU is a full Windows 95/98/ME/NT?2000 user interface replacement with security access control, timeout, logging, web browser monitoring, remote administration, and many flexible configuration options. It is easy to set up, easy to use, and almost impossible to circumvent.      

  • Fortress

    • Fortress 101 is a security agent that resides invisibly between the computer and the user. It monitors each action and determines if that action is legal or not. Protects both hardware and software.

  • Centurion Guard

    • A hardware device that prevents permanent changes to the hard drive.  When the computer is rebooted, all changes are erased.  Works similar to the way you write protect you floppy disks.

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The information above is designed to help us understand some of the challenges associated with managing public access computers.  There is a wealth of information available on this topic.  For a bibliography or more  information on managing public access computers, please email Rich Loomis @ richl@adamslibrary.org.