New computer lab opens at Sisters Library

Charlotte Nitcher at work in the new Sisters Library computer lab. Photo by Conrad Weiler

A new wireless six-station computer lab is up and running at Sisters Library.

Users will have Internet access, a digital library catalog, software productivity and children's programs to select from on the Dell computers.

Two of the units come from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Signup is right on the computer screen, thus freeing librarians from signup lists and checking time of use. Users simply type in their library card number (last seven digits), use their password (last four digits of their phone number), select whether they want filtered or unfiltered Internet access and the free 60 minutes of use begins.

One of the computers is a 15-minute express station for retrieving e-mail and faster turnover.

A seventh, handicap accessible computer, is planned as soon as structural alterations are completed.

Visitors without library cards may obtain a temporary card with access numbers for the system.

"Basically, we wanted to provide equitable services, at least in terms of computing. We can do almost everything that we do in the Redmond or Bend Branch in Sisters -- just on a smaller scale," said Rod Miller, Information Technology Manager at Deschutes Public Library System (DPLS).

Windows 2000 Professional operates these computers. Besides Internet Explorer for surfing the Net, there is the full collection of Windows software programs including the Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint), Front Page, Publisher and Access.

Children may enjoy the Scholastic software offerings. Students have use of Encarta 2001, Virtual tour of Africa, Word Atlas, Dictionary, plus the entire catalog holdings of the DPLS.

A wireless network offers interesting choices for library users.

"Although not currently available for the public, within two weeks we'll offer wireless high-speed internet access to library patrons who may have their own laptop equipped with 802.11B network card," said Miller.

"Due to the small size of the building, patrons might be able to sit out on the deck in back as the weather turns to spring and check their e-mail.

"With parking nearby, they could even sit in their car and listen to NPR while browsing the library catalog and placing requests on their favorite titles," said Miller.