Computer availability & use in the library

The Library offers access to twelve desk-top computers for public use.

Priority of use. The first priority on all computers in the library is for library research, e.g. searching the catalog or databases, or using Library CD-ROMs. If you are doing personal work (surfing the Internet, checking e-mail, or word processing) and someone needs that computer to do library research, you will be asked to switch computers or to come back later.
Catalog computer (near the circulation desk and card catalog)	Designated for catalog searching and for collaborative use with the Library staff.
HUC public access (8 computers )	First priority is for using library resources, searching databases or using CD-ROMs. If they are not being used for library research, then you may use them for word processing, email etc.
USC/Shoah Foundations (3 computers) (SW corner/American Jewish Archives area)	These computers were provided the by USC’s Shoah Foundation. The order of priority for use is: Using the Shoah Foundation database or viewing one of their files; Using the USC databases or resources; Other library research; Personal use.

Please pay attention to the following rules that allow us to keep the computers open, usable and safe/virus-free. The Library staff and the campus Network Administrator work very hard to keep these computers in good working order. We depend on you to aid, not to hinder our efforts.

• Do not change any settings on the computer (including the background or screen saver)
• Do not download any programs or files
• Do not save work to the desktop (you may save your documents on the "t:" drive)
• Do not store personal information! Remember that these are public computers!
• No minors (anyone under the age of 18) are allowed to use any computer on the HUC-JIR Los Angeles campus, except for USC students and HUC interns/volunteers
• Do not stream audio or video files unless they are work related. Streaming files slows down the network for everyone

If you need to add a program, or are experiencing problems with connectivity or network resources, please report the situation to a member of the library staff, or to the Network Administrator (room 109). Please note that the support and maintenance of these computers are provided solely by the HUC-JIR Los Angeles Network Administrator.

If you have a question about using electronic library resources, ask any of the Library staff.

Laptops

It is a violation of HUC-JIR policy for personal computers to be connected via network cable to the HUC-JIR network, due to security and virus infection concerns. You may use your laptop anywhere in the library, but, users are NOT allowed to disconnect any computer from the HUC-JIR network and connect their personal computer to it. Also, please make sure that the electrical cords don't cross walkways and create tripping hazards.

Wireless access

Wireless connectivity for student-owned computers (laptops) is available through the Beit Midrash program, and can generally be accessed throughout the building. There is no password for access, but there are limitations to being on the wireless network, since it is not connected to the HUC-JIR internal computer network. This means you cannot print to network printers, send email via smtp servers (through Outlook, Outlook Express, Entourage, Eudora, Mozilla Thunderbird, etc.), or connect to the T://Student folder on the server.

Printing

You may print to the Library printer/copier from any of the HUC public access computers. The cost is 10 cents per page and there are instructions on the copier. There is a separate printer attached to the USC computers. We do not keep this printer stocked with paper. You may supply your own, or buy it from the Library for 10 cents per sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I plug my laptop into the network so that I can print my document?

No. You'll need to copy the document onto a diskette or USB drive and print from one of the library computers.

Who can assist me with printing problems?

Ask one of the Library staff. If we can't help you, we'll contact our Network Administrator.

Whom do I ask for help connecting to the wireless network?

The Distance Learning Department (in the Merkaz)

Who can help me with formatting problems in Word? or Davka?

Since the Library is not a computer lab, we don’t know all the features in these programs, but we’ll be happy to try and work with you to resolve the problems.

Who can help me with email problems?

If you use a campus email address, the Network Administrator can help you. If you use a different program, we will not be able to help.

For further information please use the “ask the librarian” feature on our homepage, or email the Network administrator at: lahelpdesk@huc.edu