Computing in the Libraries

The new Research Commons / GACL / General Access Computing Lab in Mullins Library now offers almost 100 computer workstations. Current students, faculty, and staff may log in to use these computers with their UARK email login and password. Limited guest access for research purposes is available by request at the Reference Desk.

All workstations in the Research Commons / GACL are Dell Optiplex GX620 computers with 3 gigahertz HT Pentium D processors, 1 gigabyte DIMMs and 80 gigabyte SATA HDD. Each machine is equipped with the latest in software/desktop applications.

Two collaborative workstations are fitted with Dell Dimension DXP-051 computers with 3 GHz HT Pentium D processors, 2 gigabyte DIMMs and 160 gigabyte SATA HDD, with 24- inch screens. These workstations are designated for multi-media applications or group projects and include assistive software for students with disabilities.

Lab Operators and Reference Librarians are available to help with technical and research questions. The project is funded by the Student Technology Fee, the University Libraries, and Computing Services.

Software available in the Research Commons / GACL

Current University of Arkansas students, faculty, and staff may check out laptops or connect to the campus network with their own computers via wireless or wired access. Maps of wireless coverage and wired network drops are available.

Specialized workstations and software are available in several departments and branches:

• UofA students, faculty, and staff can now connect their laptops to the campus wireless network in the Chemistry / Biochemistry and Physics Libraries.
• GIS (geographic information systems) software is available in the Government Documents Department
• Music research tools are available in Performing Arts and Media
• Adaptive technology for the visually impaired is available in Performing Arts and Media as well as the Research Commons / GACL
• CD-ROM databases are available on a designated workstation in the Reference area
• Microfilm scanning software in the Lindley and Kaneaster Hodges Jr. Periodicals Reading Room
• A small portable scanner is available for use in Special Collections; a scanner is also available in the Research Commons / GACL
• A scanning workstation for the use of art and architecture materials in the Fine Arts Library
• A color printer is available in the Research Commons / GACL

The University of Arkansas Libraries support the University’s mission of teaching and research, and remind library users that the computers of the University Libraries are made available to support these academic functions. The following policy applies to the use of computing equipment within the Libraries and supplements the University’s Code of Computing Practices.

Use of the Libraries’ computing resources is a privilege that depends on patrons using these resources in compliance with the policies of the University and the Libraries, and with all applicable laws governing privacy and usage.

1. In University Libraries and general-access computer labs, priority shall be given to users engaged in activities directly related to the University's mission (e.g., completing course assignments or engaging in research). Use of the Libraries’ computing resources for academic pursuits takes precedence over non-academic use (e.g., recreational e-mail, Internet surfing, chat, or games).
2. Use of the University Libraries’ computer workstations for non-academic work is not permitted when others are waiting to use the equipment. Therefore, the staff of the Libraries may ask you to limit or curtail non-academic usage during peak hours or periods of heavy demand.
3. The Libraries strive to serve all patrons in a courteous, equitable manner. However, when the demand by the faculty, staff, and students of the University—its primary clientele—for computers in the Libraries exceeds the supply, the Libraries reserve the right to ask non-affiliated patrons to relinquish the use of a workstation.
4. Access to computers is limited to individuals who are 16 or older.  Verification of age may be required.

In the event of individual non-compliance with these or any of the Code of Computing Practices, University Libraries’ staff may (1) formally or informally discuss the matter with the offending party, (2) temporarily revoke or suspend access privileges, or (3) refer the matter to the appropriate disciplinary authority. Any violation of this code is misconduct for purposes of the student code of conduct, the law student code of conduct, and University personnel policies and may be punished accordingly. Any offense that violates local, state, or federal laws may result in the immediate loss of all University computing and network privileges and may be referred to the appropriate University disciplinary authority and/or law enforcement agencies.

Most electronic databases and journals are licensed by the University Libraries for the use of current University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, students, faculty, and staff only.

Researchers and community members who are not current UofA students, faculty, or staff are welcome to use most databases and electronic journals while in the library, but they may not access these resources remotely. Certain further restrictions and fees apply to some databases.

All users of library databases and electronic journals should remember that these materials are copyrighted. Fair use provisions of U.S. Copyright Law permit reproduction of single copies of copyrighted material for personal, non-commercial and private use. Publication, redistribution, transmission, or resale of articles, images or other content from electronic databases or journals would not be considered fair use. In addition, fair use guidelines address the amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted material as a whole. Electronic archiving of entire journal issues or volumes would not be considered fair use.

More about remote access to library resources.