| Library now lends laptops
The American University Library instituted a new service this fall in response to user needs. Members of the AU community can now borrow laptop computers for use in the library. This service, which takes advantage of the library’s wireless environment, allows individuals or groups to study, research, and collaborate in more flexible ways. The library has fifteen laptop computers that can be borrowed for study or research by those with AU ID cards. These brand new Dell Latitude D505s are equipped with the full Microsoft suite, wireless network cards, and network printing capability. Borrowers can work at any location inside the library and print to any one of the five network printing locations. Users may borrow a laptop by bringing their ID card to the Copy Center on the lower level of Bender Library. The laptop loan period is four hours, with an option to renew as long as no one else is waiting for one. Along with the laptop, borrowers are also given a carrying bag, network cord, power cord, charged battery, and information sheets. Copy Center staff are trained to help users get connected and further questions can be addressed by roving library techs who are on call in the building throughout the day. Other universities have already instituted similar programs with great success, and library staff anticipate that the new laptop circulation program will be a great asset to AU library users. Library hosts Constitution exhibit
American University Library invites members of the AU community to stop by and view the current exhibit on the Constitution as the nation prepares to celebrate Constitution Day on Sept. 17. The focus of the exhibit is the Fourth Amendment, which protects U.S. citizens against unlawful searches and seizure. This amendment provides the basis for most privacy laws adhered to in the United States and promises Americans the security that comes from knowing they will not be subjected to a search or seizure without probable cause. The library exhibit also highlights the USA Patriot Act and the history of government agents requesting library and bookstore records. In addition, the library will be hosting a short exhibit for Banned Book Week, Sept. 24–Oct. 1. This exhibit will be located in the foyer of the library and will be on display from late September to mid-October. Free coffee
The campus community is invited to join the AU Library as it celebrates the grand opening of its new coffee bar, The Mud Box, on Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. The Mud Box is located in the Reserves Reading Room, library lower level. A townhall meeting with acting president Neil Kerwin will follow at 7:00 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Student Government and AU Library. Free coffee will be served from 6:30 to 8 p.m. This column was prepared by Kirsten Allen, Nick Banovetz, and Jason Dolo |
