[WEB4LIB] Web Catalogs

[Andrew Mutch]

Steve,

If limiting the PCs to a single-use, for example OPACs only, is a concern or
a desire at your library, there are a number of options available to you.
Check through the web4lib archives for the details.  They can include:

1) Using Browser settings to lock-in the browser to predefined URLs.
See:  http://northville.lib.mi.us/tech/lockin.htm

2) Use LMHOSTS file on the PC to limit access.

3) Use third-party software to limit access.

4) Use a Proxy Server to limit access.

There are probably others as well.  The first 2 options are free and 1-3 can
be done at the workstation level.  Number 4 is insituted at the network level
and may have other uses as well -- caching, etc.

All of these ideas are dependent on having enough workstations to meet demand
-- this is often easier to achieve in a library with many workstations as
opposed to one with only a few.  If you only have a few workstations, you'll
probably want to retain a level of flexibility that will allow these
workstations to be Internet stations and OPACs, etc.  If this is the case,
you'll need to look at other alternatives, like time-limits, signage, etc. to
ensure that all your workstations are not tied up in a single use (which may
or may not be a problem itself).

Andrew Mutch
Library Systems Technician
Waterford Township Public Library
Waterford, MI

Steve Bachman wrote:

> >Hello,
> >
> >I've been lurking for a little while, but now I have a question.
> >
> >First the background, I work at a public library system that provides an
> online union catalog for our 43 member libraries.
> >
> >One of our long range goals is to replace dumb terminals with PC's and
> eventually make the Web OPAC the primary access tool for patrons.  We
> >will be upgrading to DRA's WebII product this year.
> >
> >Has a library that has already shifted emphasis to use of their OPAC in
> the library had difficulty with patrons doing other things than searching
> the catalog?  I can easily forsee a situation where all
> >of the PCs earmarked for catalog use are being used to surfing the
> >internet.
> >
> >What steps have been taken?  Signage? Time limits? Policies?
> >Am I just paranoid?
> >
> >TIA,
> >Steve
>
> ***********************************************************
> Steve Bachman                    *  The large print
> 4cty_steve at 4cty.org              *  giveth,
> Electronic Services Librarian    *  and the small print
> Four County Library System       *  taketh away.
> http://lib.4cty.org              *          -Tom Waits
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