Simon T ([info]barking_watcher) wrote in [info]libraries,
@ 2009-01-06 19:40:00
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WiFi Networks
Does anyone else work in a public library that provides free WiFi access to it's patrons?

The reason I ask is because at the library I work in there has been a problem whereby the people making use of the WiFi network provided by the library have been causing problems by where they sit within the library.

For some reason various people are insisting that they have to right to sit where they choose, even if it means blocking access to the bookshelves, because they claim it is the only way for them to get a good enough connection.

I raised the issue with my manager and initially she supported me but I've just been told by her that she's since changed her mind because having to explain to the borrowers that they need to move is not something she's prepared to do.

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[info]jonaskaite
2009-01-06 08:29 pm UTC (link)
Have you talked to your IT people? Our network admin takes no guff from patrons - he's tested very thoroughly throughout our building, and will not hesitate to tell them that if they have a signal problem, the problem is with their equipment.

If there's actually a signal problem in your building, that can probably be fixed. If it's just people acting bratty, being armed with "our tech people just tested an excellent signal at *that worktable over there*, have you had your network card looked at?" maintains polite professionalism while taking them down a notch pretty quickly.

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[info]just1soul
2009-01-07 01:59 am UTC (link)
Agreed. We tell patrons that their signal should work no matter where in the building they are, as it's true.

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[info]sknowite
2009-01-06 08:31 pm UTC (link)
We have wifi access. We also do not allow patrons to create a fire hazard, or block access to materials by other patrons.

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[info]daisers
2009-01-06 09:04 pm UTC (link)
Ditto. It's in our code of conduct.

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[info]anterastilis
2009-01-06 11:20 pm UTC (link)
Same here. I don't care if they're using the wifi, building a fort, or researching their dissertation. They can't create a hazard or block access.

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[info]fizit
2009-01-07 12:56 am UTC (link)
We had the same issue, although ours was to do with powerpoints rather than connection.

We locked down all the powerpoints we didn't want them using, so you can only use them if you have a key. We also installed more powerpoints at appropraite places and bought some portable one person tables to put along a bench seat.

For connectivity...can you shift the wifi spots around so that there's greater connectivity in desirable (for you) areas and not so much in the collection?

We've always had a problem with patrons curling up where they will though. We're too busy and too small to cope with it, but some people just like finding hidy-holes for themselves *shrug*

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[info]nitoda
2009-01-07 02:14 pm UTC (link)
because, well, everyone knows that online information takes precedence over old fashioned books! ;-)

I'm not sure I approve of telling people that the problem is with their equipment. If I was told that it wouldn't sound at all helpful and I would be upset to have my concerns dismissed in that way. I'm anticipating problems with wi-fi access using my EEE in a hotel in Austria next week. Last year when we stayed with them I could only connect if I was right up by their reception desk, but once I was connected I could then move and sit anywhere in the lounge area. Weird, but telling me it's my equipment really wouldn't have helped anything.

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