Computer workstations for public use are located in two areas on the main floor of the Pratt Library. The first area as you enter the library is the North Information Commons. Towards the back is the South Information Commons and IT Help Desk. There are additional full service workstations at both ends of the 2nd floor, plus catalogue lookup machines on every floor.

All Information Commons computers, except the catalogue lookup machines, have access to library catalogue, electronic library resources, and the Internet. The machines are available on a first-come, first served basis.

In addition, computers in the South Information Commons and on the second floor have word processors and other office productivity software for creating spreadsheets and presentations.

Six of the South Commons computers are equipped with scanners, and come with software for image editing, web page markup, and OCR (optical character recognition). They also support USB keys for saving large amounts of data.

Please see our quick guide for basic instruction in using the scanners, including how to turn a printed document into editable text (also available in print at the Help Desk).

*Please note* that images as well as text may be subject to copyright, and should not be scanned without permission. Unauthorized copying of ANY copyrighted material is strictly forbidden.

During the end-of-term extended hours, the electronic classroom on the third floor is available for general use. The machines there are similar to South Information Commons PCs.

The Library has a workstation designed to be accessible to visually impaired persons. It has Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Jaws, Kurzweil 1000, ZoomText and several other programs, and comes equipped with a scanner and printer. If you wish to use it, ask at the Circulation desk. Technical support is available at the IT support desk. A quick start guide is available in PDF format here and also at the workstation in print and in Braille.

(See also: Information Commons South Software)