Yale University Library maintains workstations in support of research and learning at Yale University. This document represents the Library's policy on the use of and access to these workstations. Specific implementation of this policy may vary from one library to another within the Yale University Library system.

I. Eligible users.

Yale University faculty, student and staff members may use any available workstation located in areas where they have authorized access. Library staff may require individuals who are not affiliated with Yale University to substantiate an appropriate research purpose in order to use library workstations.

II. Researchers' service expectations.

Available online resources. From each Library workstation, readers have access to the Library's public web sites, including the Front Door, the online catalog (Orbis), databases, and fulltext books and journals covering many subject areas. Some subject specific electronic resources may not be available at every library. Access to some resources may be limited to one or more locations; some resources may require additional authorization. Generally, these restrictions on access reflect licensing requirements to which the Library is bound. In addition, the Library filters access to sites that are known to infect computers with spyware and adware.

Priorities in access to workstations. Yale faculty, students, and staff can expect to have ready access to a computer, though sometimes with minimal delays at peak times.

Researchers with special needs. The Library will provide at least one wheelchair accessible workstation in each major cluster of workstations within the library system. Persons requiring other assistance to access information from a Library's workstation are urged to ask for help from Library staff. Information on the Library's Services to Persons with Disabilities may be found at http://www.library.yale.edu/services/disabilities.html.

Printing. The Library provides networked laser printing services in select libraries on a cost recovery basis.

Improvements: The Library is committed to providing reliable access to workstations as described in this service program. The Library regularly monitors use, especially during peak periods, to ensure that workstations are readily available. In addition, researchers are encouraged to make suggestions for improving the delivery of library services through its research workstations. Comments should be forwarded to the Director of Library Access Integration Services.

III. Appropriate use.

The use of Library workstations is subject to the same policies governing the use of other Yale University facilities, including all applicable state and federal laws, copyright restrictions, and license agreements. See Information Technology Appropriate Use Policy at url: http://www.yale.edu/ppdev/policy/1607/1607.html

While the Library intends to provide ready access to workstations, at times demand will exceed supply. When others are waiting to use a workstation researchers are asked to use reasonable restraint in the use of these shared resources.

Tampering with the hardware or software on the workstations is strictly prohibited. Violations may result in university disciplinary action or referral to appropriate external authorities.

Recommended revisions by Service Quality Improvement Council, May 7, 2003
Approved by Library Management Council, May 14 2003