[Publib] computers integrated into library desks

[Steve Bouchard]

We are using these in our new computer lab, 

which also serves as a classroom. They are 

very attractive and provide for good sight 

lines to the front of the room. After a few 

months, we did decide to take the monitors 

out from half the desks (the ones on the far 

left and right sides of the room) and install 

them on the top of the desks instead. 

 

This still allows for good sightlines because 

the monitors in the middle of the room are 

still recessed, but it gives those who need 

to pull their monitor closer for any reason 

ample seating options that allow them to do 

this. We're very please with this set-up so 

far.

 

But despite the prodding of our designer, we 

opted not to use these in our main public 

computing area, where our work stations are 

clustered together in groups of four such 

that patrons sit at computers that more-or-

less face each other. In this case, having 

the monitors on top of the desks helps give 

each patron a better sense of privacy in 

their own work space, and helps us reinforce

the idea that it's a quiet work area.

 

 

Steve Bouchard

Head of Ref. & Info. Srvcs.

Auburn Public Library

49 Spring Street

Auburn, Maine 04210

(207) 333-6640 etx. 4

www.auburnpubliclibrary.org <http://www.auburnpubliclibrary.org/> 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2008 11:25:27 -0600

From: "Ellen Jennings" <ejenning at cooklib.org>

Subject: [Publib] Computers integrated into library desks?

To: <publib at webjunction.org>

Message-ID:

      <F473D3F3CB7E9240BDA34E607DA43DA901D3269C at CMLSRV02.cooklib.local>

Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

 

Our library is about to embark upon a long-needed expansion project and
even when we're done, space will be at a premium. So, I turn to the
Great Minds on this list for advice and information.

 

 

 

Have any of you seen or used desks which have computer terminals
integrated into them? In what I'm imagining, the monitors would be
mounted at an angle underneath a glass desk so that the computer takes
up none of the available desk top space. The keyboard would have to be
on a slide-out type "keyboard drawer." (not sure of correct terminology)
Such desks could be used by those needing computer access as well as
those who don't. 

 

 

 

Do such things exist? If so, what are they called exactly? What
companies might manufacture such integrated desks?

 

 

 

If anyone has ever used them, how do they work?

 

 

 

Thanks in advance for your thoughts and suggestions on this request.

 

 

 

Ellen Jennings

 

Young Adult Services Coordinator

 

Cook Memorial Public Library District

 

Libertyville, Illinois

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