Library gets new computers

By Valerie DePan

The MHCC library recently installed 12 new computers and replaced six older computers.

The latest addition was part of the overall college library’s plan to utilize the library space dedicated for computer using patrons. According to Diane Schmitt, supervisor-public library services, the last phase will include adding a new laptop cart for an additional 16 laptops.

The library has roughly 54 computers; mostly on-line public access (OPACs) available for patrons, according to Schmitt.

Janette Hansen, library computer technician who helped with the install said, “most of the computers in the library that are used, are primarily programmed as searching engines and don’t have bells and whistles.” So most of the computers in the library are not installed with programs like Microsoft Office. However, the laptops available for student check-out are equipped with Microsoft Office Suite.

Michael Callaghan, supervisor-technical services said there are nine other labs on campus that also have Microsoft Office. There are about 220 computers available to students’ campus-wide.

Some are available all the time during regular campus hours whereas even more are available in labs where there are no classes, Callaghan said.

The computers located in the labs have just about every program imaginable, including In Design, said Callaghan.

Computer labs are scattered throughout the campus, labs open continually during regular campus hours include rooms 1451, 1453, and the LRC minilab (located in the library). Other labs with varying hours include rooms 1391, 1392, 1658, 3333, 2609 and 2610. Large format printing is available to students in room 1391 and 1392.
The acquisition of new and used computers is part of the college’s mission in scheduling and maintaining three-year upgrades in order to keep abreast the new technology and for compatibility purposes, Callaghan said.