Van Pelt ELC computers repaired

After experiencing slow startup and other issues, Van Pelt Library electronic lookup computers are back and faster than ever.

The computers, which were experiencing problems with printing and other functions a few weeks ago, were fully repaired around the week of Labor Day.

The slowness was a combination of several factors, such as the amount of free space available in the machines’ internal hard drives, the manner in which machines were attached to the network, the amount of time personal files were allowed to linger on a user’s profile on the library computer and the vast amount of applications offered on the computers to students.

Computers now take 30 seconds to start, and all applications, including large ones, load in seconds.

“We’re committed to providing the best experience that we can for students” said Communications, Marketing and Social Media Coordinator of Van Pelt Sara Leavens. “Trying to streamline speed and efficiency of the computers is definitely a priority for us.”

To bring about these changes, Van Pelt installed all new computers with solid-state drives, which sufficiently increased the amount of free storage space and improved network connection. Now, the staff is working on adjusting the length of time personal files can linger on a user’s profile.

The Library Technology Services division believes that the lengths it goes to provide a better experience for students reflects its commitment to serving them. In fact, when computers were originally introduced to the ELC, they were only intended to be used for word processing and email. The many functions and applications that students today are familiar with were gradually added over the course of years as the libraries responded to different popular student requests. Information on all the applications available can be found on the library’s website.

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