May 26, 2016

Question

Amanda Johnson (NC)

We have a number of libraries that have mobile laptop labs that they use for library programs and the laptops are available for check-out to use within the library when programs are not going on.  Should these laptops be counted in 650: Internet computers used by general public? 

In a prior discussion on the wiki in 2009, computer labs were determined not to be included because they were not fully available to the general public at all times. This would apply to these mobile labs but since the full availability part is not part of the definition I wondered if the thinking on this element has changed?  

Thanks!

SDC Comments

Jamie McCanless (WI)

Hi, Amanda

If the mobile lab laptops were not available to the general public when not in use for programs, I would still say don’t count.

But, because these laptops are available to the general public outside of programs I think they can be counted in 650.

Colleen Hamer (MT)

There was a listserv discussion in the 1/14/2016 range that touched on this… and the idea that these device checkouts are counted in circulation… does/should that exclude them from ‘Number of Internet Computers used by General Public’.