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Cabell Library Frequently Asked Questions

Computing

What software is currently available on the PC workstations in the library?

The public workstations in Cabell Library (excluding the Macs and basement computer lab) include Microsoft Office 2003 Professional Edition (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint) with Office 2007 Compatibility Pack, OpenOffice, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Adobe Reader, Windows Media Player, iTunes, SciFinder Scholar, Flash, Shockwave, RealPlayer, Quicktime, WinZip, Adobe Photoshop Album (picture viewer), and Write-N-Cite.  If you require more advanced applications such as the full version of Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premier, Sound Forge, or capabilities such as scanning and CD/DVD burning, please see our list of workstations available for “checkout” in Media & Reserves Services on the third floor (map).  Please note that use of these computers falls under a specific use policy.  In addition, MRS also has headphones and Ethernet cables you can checkout for in-library use.  If you require SPSS, you will need to use one of the machines in the basement computer lab (map). 

I’m not a student or staff member at VCU, may I use the computers in the library?

Visitors from other colleges, universities and high schools and members of the public are welcome to make use of VCU Libraries research collections.  Visitors may access the Libraries' catalog and digital resources at guest workstations and may be granted a temporary login at a public workstation for research purposes.  For more information, please see our guest access policy.  While using our machines you must follow VCU’s Computer and Network Resource Use Policy and the rules and regulations specific to the libraries.

Where can I save my work?

In order to save your work while using one of the library’s workstations, we suggest you use your own account space on Blackboard or portable media such as a jump drive.  Floppy drives are being phased out on our public workstations.  You can also temporarily save a file to the desktop and then email it to yourself.  To protect your privacy, our computers are configured to erase all of the files created during your work session when you log out.  If you saved something to the desktop, it cannot be accessed or recovered after you have logged out.

Can I download programs and install them on library workstations?

To protect both your privacy and the integrity of our workstations, it is not possible for you to install programs onto our public workstations. 

I can’t remember my password.  Where can I get help?

If you cannot remember your password, you will need to call or visit the Technology Services Help Desk located in the basement of Cabell Library (map).

My eID and password aren’t working.  What should I do?

First, make sure that you haven’t accidentally turned on Caps Lock.  If you have entered your password incorrectly more than five times, your account becomes temporarily locked.  Please wait fifteen minutes and then try again.  If you continue to experience problems, please fill out our Log On Problem Report Form.  Be sure to include as much information as possible about the problem you are experiencing.  Alternatively, you may also consult the Technology Services Help Desk for assistance.