Yale University Library maintains library research workstations to provide access to electronic resources available on-site and via the Internet 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 research workstation located in areas where they have authorized access. Other researchers have access to at least one research workstation in each library that is open to the general public. Individual libraries may identify one or more workstations as "general use" to insure such 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 research workstation, including those designated for "general use," readers have access to the Library's public web sites, including the Front Door, the online catalog (Orbis), and networked online resources covering numerous 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.

Access to Orbis. An appropriate number of the computers in each of the Yale libraries may be designated "Orbis-only" to insure ready access to the Library's catalog of holdings.

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. When demand for research workstations exceeds supply, other researchers are asked to limit their use of library workstations to those designated as "general use" and "Orbis-only." In addition, priority in the use of library workstations is given to those accessing Orbis and resources that can only be accessed on library research workstations.

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 research 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 Service Quality Improvement Council in care of the Associate University Librarian for public services.

III. Appropriate use.

The use of library research 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

Research workstations are provided for library-related research and educational purposes only. Separate e-mail kiosks are provided through Academic Technology and Media at several of the larger Yale libraries or where service demands require.

While the Library intends to provide ready access to workstations, at times demand will exceed supply. Researchers are asked to use reasonable restraint in the use of these shared resources, especially at times of peak demand.

Tampering with the hardware or software on the research 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