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INWOOD, WV, January 10, 2001
With growing demand among patrons for substantially increased PC access and functionality, the need has never been greater among libraries of all
types to more effectively manage how all of their public workstations are used. Heightening the challenge is today’s PC and Internet-based culture one in which the ratio of library-based computers to hands-on
librarians has grown exponentially and concerns about “hacking” escalate daily.
The The Library Corporation
today announced that it will offer a new, web-based tool that enables library staff to easily configure each computer and place firm controls on their patrons’ workstation session times, applications usage, Internet access and ability to use files, disks, printers and other peripherals.
Called SecureSolution, the product manages access to PCs and their resources through easy-to-use password codes, known as “keys.” Library
administrators simply logon to the SecureSolution website, set their own specific criteria by user or PC and download pre-configured software to either standalone PCs, or an entire network. Different
configurations can be selected for an individual station, with access contingent upon the logon.
By issuing different keys to multiple patrons, a single machine can convert from catalog browsing OPACs for one user, to web surfing for the
next. Keys can also be designed to fit only specific workstations. In that way, a library’s high-end graphics computer for example, can be dedicated solely to design work. In addition,
SecureSolution has the flexibility to permit patron access to be issued either permanently or for one-time usage.
As TLC’s CEO, Annette Bakhtiar, noted, “We live in a digital age in which librarians increasingly need sophisticated, yet easy-to-use tools that can
help leverage their time while ensuring that patrons have fair access to PCs and related library resources.
SecureSolution minimizes the repetitive tasks associated with managing equipment usage, recording log-in sheets and making certain all patrons get a fair turn using the library’s computers.”
SecureSolution also includes additional management features such as statistical reporting on time and application usage, resource tracking, and the
capability to create multiple language interfaces.
Further, staff may use SecureSolution to create a customized screen saver, consistent with a library’s particular corporate I.D. system, that welcomes the user and prompts the beginning of a session.
The product operates on Windows® 95/98, NT & 2000 and was originally designed
for use in public libraries, but is also ideal for computer labs, offices, cyber cafes and private libraries.
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Kid’s Catalog for Library.Solution customers
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INWOOD, WV, January 12, 2001
Creating a fun and easy way for children to access library catalogs and the wonder of the Web has really been anything but a first grade primer.
TLC and CARL Corporation have introduced a new software program called “Kid’s Catalog
Web.” Fully compatible with TLC’s turn-key library automation system, LibrarySolution, Kid’s Catalog Web makes all types of searches for youngsters quick and easy by using
simple language with attractive graphics. For instance, when a child clicks the "aliens" icon, the system gives results for the Library of Congress subject heading of
"Extraterrestrial Beings."
As a starting point, Kid’s Catalog Web comes with a core suite of more than 5,000
websites, pre-selected for appropriate content. The collection is composed of governmental, non-profit and other highly-regarded Websites. This online collection is
selected and maintained by library experts, experienced in selecting the best resources for children. Librarians can also customize their collection with a special software package
called “WebBuilder Pro,” which is included with the program. Further, Kid’s Catalog Web can easily be tailored by school librarians to integrate with specific classroom assignments and regional collections.
In making today’s announcement, Annette Bakhtiar, TLC’s Chief Executive Officer, stated,
“While kids today need direct access to their library catalog and the Internet, the library industry has been searching for a customizable product that can make a child’s overall
experience faster and more productive. That is precisely the mission of Kid’s Catalog Web, and, I’m pleased to report that initial response suggests that it is delivering on this promise.”
Kid’s Catalog Web for CARL IMDS was released mid-2000, making successful debuts at
Sno-Isle Regional Library and Phoenix Public Library. Now that Kid’s Catalog Web is integrated with LibrarySolution, libraries of all sizes can provide this new service to their younger patrons.
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