Improving the student computing environment
The student computing environment was
improved by offering a standard login procedure that eradicates the
need for students and staff to log in to the public computers using
their Novell account names and passwords. The public computers now
have a Monash Authcate login which is faster, more robust and easier
to use. Authcate login allows easier access for Monash affiliates and
alleviates the problems associated with Novell accounts for new
students at the beginning of each year. The catalogue also provides
access via Authcate to protect student and staff loan details.
Installing a new email client on staff computers
A new email
client (Mozilla Thunderbird) was installed on all staff computers in
less than two months with road shows providing an overview of the new
mail client and its features. The average turnaround time for the
installation of staff computers averaged less than two hours with the
use of new and improved image software.
Implementing a new shared drive structure
As part of the continuing project to
implement the shared drive structure, a major overhaul of the staff
network drive occurred with over 66,000 files deleted and condensed
into a more user friendly structure. Policies were put in place to
ensure that all correct file naming conventions were used, backups
were carried out correctly and all master files and working tools were
placed on the intranet. A policy on archiving electronic documents was
also implemented. A major roadshow to educate staff on the policy was
conducted over a three month period.
Providing a secure and safe environment
Security alarms and video surveillance have been
upgraded as part of the Hargrave-Andrew Library refurbishment. The
layout of shelving and furniture in this building has also opened up
areas and better lighting has provided a safer and more secure
environment.
Additional video surveillance is also planned for
the Matheson Library.
In 2005 the
University’s safety and security staff visited all branch libraries to
document safety procedures and provide up-to-date advice on the
university’s role and responsibilities. The library now receives
regular updates on security breaches and all branch staff log security
matters in accordance with University guidelines.
Providing facilities for people with special needs
Adaptive
Technology Rooms are now operational in six library branches and are
planned for Berwick and Pharmacy once building programs are
completed. In 2005 more than 2,500 hours of use were logged in these
facilities. In support of the technology installed in these rooms the
University Library formalised a Service Level Agreement with the
university’s Disability Liaison Unit.
Services
provided by the library for students with disabilities include
retrieval of books from the collections, arranging intercampus and
inter-library loans, and personal
assistance with use of adaptive technology equipment. Resting Room
services provided in the Matheson Library received a boost
with new furniture and redecoration.
Providing responsive hours of opening
All branches were open all scheduled hours during
2005 with the exception of minor disruptions caused by power failures.
Following a
trial in 2004 the opening hours for the Berwick library were increased
to include weekend afternoons during semester. Whilst numbers
remained small they are expected to increase with the opening of the
Library and Learning Commons and introduction of on- campus student
accommodation in 2006.
With door count
figures indicating significantly more people than seats available in
the Matheson Library Annexe on most evenings and weekends, the space
was extended to level 1, providing an additional 60 seats and five
computers. The new area was zoned quiet study-space. Complaints of
overcrowding have ceased. |
