The ICC library uses the Aleph automation system. When I questioned Katie about the tech support, their experience has been very good. Through the MnPALS system, there is what is called the RightNow option and have gotten very good service on all aspects is issues with the automation software. When updates need to be done, it's done through the MnPALS.
The college library has 10 thin clients, 12 additional computers located along the back counter, and four located in the four individual study rooms. In addition to those, there are 15 laptops that are available to students to checkout and four presentation kits.
About 99.9% of the campus is wireless. Wireless started in the cafeteria and library and over the last three years has encompassed the campus with the exception of Mullins Hall. Mullins Hall is were the physical education classes, weight room, and gym is located. That is expected to be completed by this summer. When I last visited the library, they did not have a computer lab attendant person. Now they do. He helps with any computer related issues within the library. What was interesting to know, students have issues with their own personal laptop, he is there to help. There are two printers across campus that are setup for wireless printing, one being in the library and the other being in the Engineering building. Any issues with the wireless connection does not fall on the shoulders of the computer lab attendant person in the library, but is the responsibility of the IT department.
When I last visited the library, a donor had donated a large amount of money to the ICC library with the promise that the library would be named after her. With this money and other grants, the library will be getting a multimedia center in place. A library consultant was hired, the consultant has given them (Katie and Steve) the preliminary report and all this has been turned over to the Master Facilities Committee.
Katie had noted and when I asked for a little further clarification, I must admit, I was still confused as to what was going to happen with wikis and social networking. She said as for social networking goes, it is something they really want to get done, but lately it's been a time issue. The college will be going through re-accrediation a year from now and somehow this tied into wikis. Regardless, it will be interesting to see what she meant by this.
I learned that the business and records office is now digitizing all student records. I asked her if there was anything in the library that should be digitized. This turned to be a brainstorming session for her as the old ICC yearbooks are still stored in the back. Also, the annual Spring Thaw which is a publication of submitted stories, drawings, photographs, and poetry by the students on campus. Every piece of historical value on the college itself should be digitized. This discussion resulted in her making a note to talk to Steve about this. I asked that she let me know when this happens as I would like to see the whole process.
This is two of the 12 computers along the back counter. Straight ahead, is the front where the circulation desk is located.
The only computer lab on campus.
The Pit. The reference materials are located along the back wall. Periodicals are along the left wall and along the right is a handicap camp.
This picture is from the entrance what you would see when first walking through the doors. The sitting area with the tv was not there when I attended at the time.
