Background
Check which computers at UB are available
From now on, waiting for ages to use one of the computer workstations at the University Library (UB) is a thing of the past: a few weeks ago, the UB website added a new feature so you can check which computers are still available.
Wednesday 30 October 2013

So far, the website only shows you which of the computers in the UB’s large computer room and the reading room of the East Asian Library are available.

"More will be added soon", Kurt De Belder, the director of Leiden’s university libraries, assures us, "but we still need to map out the floor plans of the other libraries." He expects all NUWS workstations to have been added by the end of the year, showing computer availability at all library locations.

"A lot of people have already responded enthusiastically via Twitter. But don’t forget, the system is refreshed every minute, so even if you have checked it at home, the situation could have changed by the time you get here. Although you can always use the UB app on your phone if you’re on your way over."

However, the page does not show whether students have installed books around the computers like towels draped on the best spots at the beach and gone off to do other things. "A survey we held last year revealed that students frequently find computers ‘reserved’ by books", says De Belder.

When that emerged, the UB shortened the automatic log-out time on the computers to twenty minutes, a reasonable amount of time for a loo break or a coffee.

De Belder adds: "Nowadays, we do rounds and collect books and other stuff left lying next to an unused computer in a basket. People can always pick up their gear but at least students can make the most of the available computers."

Marleen van Wesel