Improvements Since the Library Survey 2004
Since the survey was undertaken in May 2004, the University Library has focused efforts on improving the areas which were clearly identified by respondents as needing attention. The two key areas where there were significant gaps between the level of importance and the perceived level of performance at each of the campus libraries, were the number of computers available, and the related variable, the adequacy of computer facilities and equipment. To date, the improvements which have been introduced include:
Albury-Wodonga
The library now has 52 public access computers, including 15 computers in the Training Room. All computers were upgraded in January 2006, providing a common operating system and faster processing power. All computers, with the exception of the catalogue terminals, connect to a network printer.
In addition, wireless networking is now available in the library for students wishing to use personal laptops.
Bendigo
The library has increased the number of computer workstations by installing 15 new computers with access to the Internet and Microsoft Office products. A further 14 new computers were installed in the extended and refurbished Training Room and nearly all other library computers have been recently upgraded.
Two 24 inch monitors have been purchased, primarily for students with vision impairment. The wheel chair accessible photocopier has been upgraded.
An additional self serve printer station has been set up, making a total of three. The self service printing software has been upgraded to enable printing to be collected from any of the stations. The library has also installed a wireless network to enable access to networked resources via laptop computers. This network has been recently extended to gain as much coverage as possible on all levels of the library. Additional power outlets have been added on Level 1 and the mezzanine to assist students using laptops. The library will loan out wireless adaptors, for patrons who do not have inbuilt adaptors in their laptops.
The library has purchased and installed two new digital microfilm/fiche reader printers which enable improved access and use of microform resources. Two new DVD/video players and monitors have been provided.
Additional facility improvements include the purchase of 24 new more comfortable study chairs, and installation of heat resistant screens and blinds in the Training Room to provide more comfortable conditions for students undertaking information literacy classes or working in the area.Bundoora
An additional 28 workstations with Internet access and Microsoft Office products have been installed on Level 1. This brings the total number of computer workstations for client access to 224. The library has also upgraded and extended the wireless network to provide more and faster access points. Patrons with inbuilt wireless adaptors in their laptops are now able to use the wireless network without having to borrow one of the library's wireless adaptors.
More than 170 of the existing computer workstations have been upgraded or replaced by more powerful computers since the survey was undertaken. This includes 104 new computers with flat screen monitors. Also, 14 of the 18 PCs in the Audiovisual area that were previously dedicated to accessing streamed audio or video were upgraded to provide the same range of authenticated access to electronic services as available at other PCs in the library i.e. access to scholarly resources via the Internet, all Microsoft Office Products and printing facilities. The remaining four PCs in the Audiovisual area will remain dedicated to audio and video streaming.
Printing facilities have been improved with the installation of four printers capable of high capacity printing. The library has dedicated six PCs on Level 2 for express printing to make it easier for students who come to the library and just want to quickly print an assignment, a previous examination paper, or lecture notes.
A new workstation for clients with disabilities has been installed. This workstation replaces previous equipment, and provides enhanced functionality for clients.
The library has provided a self service facility for clients to borrow. Two self checkout units have been implemented and are proving popular in their speed and simplicity of operation.
Mildura
Six new computers, a network printer with print charge and a new scanner have been installed in the library research room. Fifteen other library computers have also been upgraded and specialized wheel chair access has been provided for one of these.
Shepparton
Although there has been no increase in the number of student computers, all four have been upgraded recently and are consistent with the workstation configuration in the campus computer laboratory. The facility to check the print credit balance prior to commencing printing has been introduced.
April 2006