Is it possible to put a block on Myspace and Facebook in the library. I am sick and tired of people "playing" on the computers when some students actually want to do work. About half of the students in the library are not doing anything constructive with the computers and it is really making me mad. A lot of times, I come to check my email before class to see if I need any thing for the class I am going to, and some bum is looking at pictures. I am fed up with this because these computers are for academics.
From: Kent, undergraduate student

Pat Flanagan, Associate University Librarian for Public Services, responds....
Thank you for taking the time to let us know of your frustration. It is unfortunate that the library does not have the infrastructure capacity to provide adequate computers for all needs. While it may appear that some uses of our computers are for personal and not academic use, the library refrains from making judgments about use wherever possible. The tools and communications utilized by our users to accomplish their tasks can take many paths. We also hope for the library to be a place of intellectual discourse and productive social interaction, in addition to providing access to resources. The downside is that on some occasions people like yourself may not find a computer readily available. The upside is that the library remains a key location on campus for gathering and the sharing of ideas. It may be useful to check machines in the Technology Services lab in Cabell’s basement. Additionally, in response to requests from our community, we have created stand-up express stations in Cabell. These should become accessible more frequently for the type of quick pre-class use you describe. We do apologize for the frustrations you are experiencing. Were it possible, we would provide many more machines to satisfy the various interests and uses by our constituents.