Self service is not working well. I have had a book on my ticket that i have never borrowed ( reliability and validity assessment) but nobody seems to want to resolve my problem. Students are taking good books and not swiping them out some are keeping books that are not on their tickets. i have seen people looking in reserved boxes for books they might need and have not requested. You must be losing lots of very expensive books.Also when returning books if they can not be scanned they are going in the return box and it takes ages for them to be taken from our tickets.
Thank you for your comment regarding "Reliability and Validity Assessment".
There is no note on your account regarding this book. I cannot check with the member of staff at Putteridge Bury as she is house bound because of the snow. I am instigating a shelf check at Putt initiailly and at all the other sites of the University to see if the book is on site elsewhere. I would ask you to talk to the member of staff at Putteridge Bury about this problem and see if you can help shed any light on the issue. I would also ask you to double check at home just in case it has been stored out of sight.
The book was checked out on 5.11.09 and has been renewed 4 times it is now due on 11 January. Did you report your concerns to library staff - Sylvia Thomson?
Thanks for your comments about your security concerns these will be investigated
Tuesday 22 December 2009
I returned my books to the Putteridge Bury campus Library on Thursday 17th of December, as there was no one there and the books didn't have tags in them I could not return them using the new computer system put in place. I was told by a notice to place them in a returns bin and they would be returned as and when someone was present in the library. I thought I had given enough time for my books to be returned which were due back on Monday the 21st of December. But they are still not off my account, I am guessing this is due to the snow, but I am not happy that I can't take any more books out and will get a large fine over christmas as there are a lot of books on my account. Due to snow I understand if no one was there to take my books off my account, but on previous visits to the library there has always been a member of staff to man the desk and to help me return my books .
I suggest that there be a member of staff present in the Putteridge Bury Campus to deal with such problems and not a computer! The staff at Bedford Library were extremely helpful and I appreicate their help and I am looking forward to a reply.
Thank you for your email. I am sorry for the frustration caused by the lack of staff at Putteridge Bury during this time of disruptive weather.
You were correct to assume that no-one was at Putteridge Bury 17th or 18th Dec due to the fact that the staff member was trapped in their village. Eight of your books were found and taken off your account - for items remain on loan to you. Do you have these items at home? Your email did not specify how many items you returned. None of the books are due until January now and there are no fines owing.
In normal circumstances putting items in the returns bin would mean that they would be off your account the following day unfortunately due to the weather this was not possible this time.
You would need to return the books (when the LRC isn't staffed) via the returns bin as there is no self service returns unit (like there is at Park Square). You may return your loans to any site of the University.
Due to the re-designation of the space at Putteridge Bury there will not be a member of staff on duty throughout the building's opening hours - hence the investment in swipe access and self service issue equipment. There is a member of staff on duty each day there is teaching at Putteridge Bury however and so queries should be dealt with promptly.
I suggest that there be a member of staff present in the Putteridge Bury Campus to deal with such problems and not a computer! The staff at Bedford Library were extremely helpful and I appreicate their help and I am looking forward to a reply.
Thank you for your email. I am sorry for the frustration caused by the lack of staff at Putteridge Bury during this time of disruptive weather.
You were correct to assume that no-one was at Putteridge Bury 17th or 18th Dec due to the fact that the staff member was trapped in their village. Eight of your books were found and taken off your account - for items remain on loan to you. Do you have these items at home? Your email did not specify how many items you returned. None of the books are due until January now and there are no fines owing.
In normal circumstances putting items in the returns bin would mean that they would be off your account the following day unfortunately due to the weather this was not possible this time.
You would need to return the books (when the LRC isn't staffed) via the returns bin as there is no self service returns unit (like there is at Park Square). You may return your loans to any site of the University.
Due to the re-designation of the space at Putteridge Bury there will not be a member of staff on duty throughout the building's opening hours - hence the investment in swipe access and self service issue equipment. There is a member of staff on duty each day there is teaching at Putteridge Bury however and so queries should be dealt with promptly.
Monday 14 December 2009
Oxford House: Opening Hours
It is... inconvenient to study, practice and have a family whilst trying to use the library facilities in these times..it would be a great help to be able to use the facilities after putting kids to bed...Please can you campaign to have a more flexible arrangement with facilities. Studying is not only about being able to access, view and renewe resources, for some of us its about the space/environment in which to study as well.
Thank you for completing a feedback form expressing your views on the opening hours at Oxford House LRC.
You are correct in your assumption that we are bound by the opening hours of the building. We are equally bound by the prohibitionally expensive factors associated with considering additional or extended opening hours. Within our current range of resources weekdays 08.00 -18.00 are the best opening hours we can offer.
We do review opening hours each year in May and I will bring your suggestion to the meeting for consideration. Even though I know, that must seem a long way off. I cannot promise anything about the outcome but I do promise that it will be considered.
Thank you for completing a feedback form expressing your views on the opening hours at Oxford House LRC.
You are correct in your assumption that we are bound by the opening hours of the building. We are equally bound by the prohibitionally expensive factors associated with considering additional or extended opening hours. Within our current range of resources weekdays 08.00 -18.00 are the best opening hours we can offer.
We do review opening hours each year in May and I will bring your suggestion to the meeting for consideration. Even though I know, that must seem a long way off. I cannot promise anything about the outcome but I do promise that it will be considered.
Bedford, Polhill Library
I would like to bring to your attention the staff at the bedford campus library. The service that they provide is above and beyond that which is required of them. They have helped me on more than one occasion with difficulties that lecturers could not overcome. They do not hesitiate to help even if doing so adds to their workload. Whether it be tracing quotes, internet help, out of print articles or archived pieces not available at this site they have been happy to help and never disappoint. They are a credit to this university and, for me, completing assignments and getting a degree would be impossible without their continuing help and support.
Thank you for your comments. I am very pleased that the professionalism of the staff at Bedford, Polhill Library is appreciated by our valued customers.
Thank you for your comments. I am very pleased that the professionalism of the staff at Bedford, Polhill Library is appreciated by our valued customers.
Thursday 26 November 2009
Internet access
Internet is not browsing on level 1 checked with the library staff and tried on various locations on level 1. It connects but not browsing. Its okay at social area.
Thank you for your email. I am sorry that you have been experiencing problems with the internet. Its not clear from your comments whether you were using the wifi network or a pc. There seems to have been a problem after 6pm Wed 25 November 2009. This has been reported to the University's Information and Systems Department and they will address it.
Thank you for your email. I am sorry that you have been experiencing problems with the internet. Its not clear from your comments whether you were using the wifi network or a pc. There seems to have been a problem after 6pm Wed 25 November 2009. This has been reported to the University's Information and Systems Department and they will address it.
Internet
I am using and Internet at Learning Resources centre but internet is not working properly and we having a problem with internet on level 1
I am sorry you are having problems with the internet. Our Information Systems Department will be made aware of the issue and they will address it. Please report any problems you have with the internet to the Customer Service Desks when you have the problem.
Thanks
I am sorry you are having problems with the internet. Our Information Systems Department will be made aware of the issue and they will address it. Please report any problems you have with the internet to the Customer Service Desks when you have the problem.
Thanks
Monday 23 November 2009
Printing
I'm a returning student and was surprised of the new printing system... is not efficient... ridiculous to wait in the queue... I'd appreciate if these machines would disappear...
Thank you for your comments regarding the new printing service within the University.
The University decided to move from its previous printing service provider to the new one - P Counter - last January. The new system was brought in with a lot of investment and testing on behalf of the University. Unfortunately in recent weeks the system has met new demands which has caused it to fail. The system developers have found a "fix" and it has been applied. It is hoped that there will not be the level of problems experienced 9 - 20 Nov from now on.
Please be reassured that the University wants to provide the best service possible to all its students. Unfortunately printing has suffered a few teething problems but it is hoped that these have been addressed and won't be an issue in the future.
Thank you for your comments regarding the new printing service within the University.
The University decided to move from its previous printing service provider to the new one - P Counter - last January. The new system was brought in with a lot of investment and testing on behalf of the University. Unfortunately in recent weeks the system has met new demands which has caused it to fail. The system developers have found a "fix" and it has been applied. It is hoped that there will not be the level of problems experienced 9 - 20 Nov from now on.
Please be reassured that the University wants to provide the best service possible to all its students. Unfortunately printing has suffered a few teething problems but it is hoped that these have been addressed and won't be an issue in the future.
Tuesday 27 October 2009
Praise :)
Best and most efficient thing about the Uni. You guys should take over running it.
Thank you for your kind words :)
I would like to take this opportunity to highlight a new service that the University is introducing across all sites from October 2010 and piloting at Butterfield in the new year. The Begin helpdesk project will introduce a first base staffed desk for any enquiry about the University that you need assistance with. If your query cannot be answered on the spot you will referred to the most appropriate person to deal with it. I know its a little way off but I think its something that most customers will welcome in due course.
Thank you for your kind words :)
I would like to take this opportunity to highlight a new service that the University is introducing across all sites from October 2010 and piloting at Butterfield in the new year. The Begin helpdesk project will introduce a first base staffed desk for any enquiry about the University that you need assistance with. If your query cannot be answered on the spot you will referred to the most appropriate person to deal with it. I know its a little way off but I think its something that most customers will welcome in due course.
Monday 26 October 2009
3 Areas of concern
I would like to bring to your attention that the weekend are the only days in the week where a student can give more time for research whereas on a week day lecture hours keeps the time moving and does'nt let ample amount of time to work on issues with research. So yes, i would suggest the opening of the LRC till 10 pm on the weekends.
Another issue was about the accessibility of learning resources, due to the load on pc 's in the LRC and the using of a personal laptop connected to the wireless internet in the LRC, at times it gets difficult to check emails, reserve books and accessing e-journals from the digital library with a personal laptop.
I would also suggest the university to promote awareness in students about keeping quiet in the silent study areas of the university and use the social learning for group discussions and learning.
These are my personal suggestions and regular surveys will enable more feedback and maintain a standard library for the students.
Thank you for getting back to me.
The LRC opening times are set each year to try and reflect customer need while having to accommodate resourcing issues. We had a request to open later at the weekends last academic year which we trialed for over a month. Use did not indicate that substantially longer opening hours were needed at the weekend and so we stopped. We were only able to open beyond 5.30 with security staff patrolling. We will try to open for longer hours around May time to accommodate dissertation work and exam revision but I have to report that there are no immediate plans to open until 10pm at the weekends this year.
In reply to your comment about accessing resources on your personal laptop - its unfortunate but seems to be one of those things that the wifi signal within the University (as with all institutions) occasionally varies. There is no signal - for instance - in the IT Suite so there's no point in trying to use a laptop there. If you go into the Social learning Space however the signal is much stronger there.
The University is firmly behind creating and maintaining a variety of study environments particularly within the LRC. Level 3 is a silent working area. All other areas of the LRC (with the exception of the Social Learning Space) are quiet study areas. Personal definitions of "quiet" vary between individuals and I do understand that other customers' definitions of quiet maybe occasionally at odds with your own. If you think you have a reasonable case please report any loud behaviour to the staff on the desks on level 1 and they will get security to patrol. The Social learning Space and the IT Suite are social learning areas and the noise volume will reflect this.
Another issue was about the accessibility of learning resources, due to the load on pc 's in the LRC and the using of a personal laptop connected to the wireless internet in the LRC, at times it gets difficult to check emails, reserve books and accessing e-journals from the digital library with a personal laptop.
I would also suggest the university to promote awareness in students about keeping quiet in the silent study areas of the university and use the social learning for group discussions and learning.
These are my personal suggestions and regular surveys will enable more feedback and maintain a standard library for the students.
Thank you for getting back to me.
The LRC opening times are set each year to try and reflect customer need while having to accommodate resourcing issues. We had a request to open later at the weekends last academic year which we trialed for over a month. Use did not indicate that substantially longer opening hours were needed at the weekend and so we stopped. We were only able to open beyond 5.30 with security staff patrolling. We will try to open for longer hours around May time to accommodate dissertation work and exam revision but I have to report that there are no immediate plans to open until 10pm at the weekends this year.
In reply to your comment about accessing resources on your personal laptop - its unfortunate but seems to be one of those things that the wifi signal within the University (as with all institutions) occasionally varies. There is no signal - for instance - in the IT Suite so there's no point in trying to use a laptop there. If you go into the Social learning Space however the signal is much stronger there.
The University is firmly behind creating and maintaining a variety of study environments particularly within the LRC. Level 3 is a silent working area. All other areas of the LRC (with the exception of the Social Learning Space) are quiet study areas. Personal definitions of "quiet" vary between individuals and I do understand that other customers' definitions of quiet maybe occasionally at odds with your own. If you think you have a reasonable case please report any loud behaviour to the staff on the desks on level 1 and they will get security to patrol. The Social learning Space and the IT Suite are social learning areas and the noise volume will reflect this.
Friday 23 October 2009
Can't get into my e-mail
I am unable to access my email
Thank you for your query regarding your email account. I am sorry that you have been experiencing problems. Its difficult for me to answer your query as there does not appear to be any problems with your University accounts.
If you are clicking on the "university emails" bubble on the University pc desktop this won't take you to your netmail account. Try logging on through:
netmail.beds.ac.uk
not the bubble on the desktop which is gmail.
If this isn't successful please go to the enquiry desk of your LRC next time you come into the University.
Thank you for your query regarding your email account. I am sorry that you have been experiencing problems. Its difficult for me to answer your query as there does not appear to be any problems with your University accounts.
If you are clicking on the "university emails" bubble on the University pc desktop this won't take you to your netmail account. Try logging on through:
netmail.beds.ac.uk
not the bubble on the desktop which is gmail.
If this isn't successful please go to the enquiry desk of your LRC next time you come into the University.
Tuesday 13 October 2009
Praise
From general comments made about the campus library, it has become clear to me that the library staff are often given a bad name. For example, the rule of no student card, no entry is a fair one, and to me there is no point disputing it or complaining, the rule is clear and simple!! The library staff are all curtious, polite and helpful in everyway they can be, and if they dont know how to help, they can often find someone who does. Therefore I would disagree with anyone who complains that the library staff, both librarians and assistants are unfair or unhelpful in all they do. Also the manner some people speak to the staff is disgraceful, they dont deserve to be abused verbally. It is a wonder they keep there cool!! All credit to all who work there!
Many thanks for your kind words
Many thanks for your kind words
Wednesday 30 September 2009
Username and Password
How do I get a UoB username and password?
On registering with University your username and password are automatically generated for you within 24 - 48 hours.
Your username is your University ID number as it appears on your ID card
Your password is your date of birth in the ddmmyy format (day day month month year year)
Do I need 4 passes to get a certificate? How many credits do I need to actually pass the course and receive a degree certificate?
Please direct these questions at your Faculty Office as they are best placed to answer them.
Computing and Information Systems Faculty Office is at C213 Park Square.
On registering with University your username and password are automatically generated for you within 24 - 48 hours.
Your username is your University ID number as it appears on your ID card
Your password is your date of birth in the ddmmyy format (day day month month year year)
Do I need 4 passes to get a certificate? How many credits do I need to actually pass the course and receive a degree certificate?
Please direct these questions at your Faculty Office as they are best placed to answer them.
Computing and Information Systems Faculty Office is at C213 Park Square.
Friday 18 September 2009
Butterfield - silent study
Please could we have a silent area of study suggest especially during revision for exams.
Thank you for this suggestion. Regrettably there is no space at Butterfield that can be used to create an area of silent study. If there is any chance of you coming into Park Square to study – especially for exams – level 3 of the LRC has been designated silent study and I would encourage you to use this.
Thank you for this suggestion. Regrettably there is no space at Butterfield that can be used to create an area of silent study. If there is any chance of you coming into Park Square to study – especially for exams – level 3 of the LRC has been designated silent study and I would encourage you to use this.
Butterfield LRC
Would it be possible if the library create a list of subjects of different books, in front of the shelf?
Thank you for this suggestion. We will look into this and hopefully, in a week or so, you will see new guiding round the library shelves
Also to get more computers with the printer…
Unfortunately space restrictions prohibit installing more pcs at Butterfield. We may trial designating one pc a print only pc on hand in days to help students get their assignments in on time. Please remember its not advisable to leave printing your assignment until the last minute. Laptops are available for loan within the LRC to give you a larger number of computer access points.
Thank you for this suggestion. We will look into this and hopefully, in a week or so, you will see new guiding round the library shelves
Also to get more computers with the printer…
Unfortunately space restrictions prohibit installing more pcs at Butterfield. We may trial designating one pc a print only pc on hand in days to help students get their assignments in on time. Please remember its not advisable to leave printing your assignment until the last minute. Laptops are available for loan within the LRC to give you a larger number of computer access points.
Friday 14 August 2009
External Users
Dear Anjam Ismail
University of Bedfordshire's learning resources are provided for UoB students. External users have a small range of resources available to them within the licencing arrangments within the University and the finances which can be directed toward external users.
I will look into the possibility of Word being installed on the kiosk pc.
I will have the USB port checked on the kiosk pc.
A printer will not be connected to the kiosk pc as we do not have the finances to do this.
Consideration will be given to providing a second kiosk in the future but there is no budget to do this at this time.
Thanks
University of Bedfordshire's learning resources are provided for UoB students. External users have a small range of resources available to them within the licencing arrangments within the University and the finances which can be directed toward external users.
I will look into the possibility of Word being installed on the kiosk pc.
I will have the USB port checked on the kiosk pc.
A printer will not be connected to the kiosk pc as we do not have the finances to do this.
Consideration will be given to providing a second kiosk in the future but there is no budget to do this at this time.
Thanks
Monday 3 August 2009
Increased Opening Hours
Thank you for your request for increased opening hours prior to 28 July.
I am sorry but the resources that we have for opening the LRC are planned a year ahead. Responding within a week for an increase in hours cannot be agreed I am sorry to say. Over the summer the LRC is open 8.30 - 17.45 Monday - Friday and 10.30 - 17.30 on Saturdays.
I am sorry but the resources that we have for opening the LRC are planned a year ahead. Responding within a week for an increase in hours cannot be agreed I am sorry to say. Over the summer the LRC is open 8.30 - 17.45 Monday - Friday and 10.30 - 17.30 on Saturdays.
Summer time opening hours
Thank you for your comment regarding LRC opening hours
I have not seen any other requests to display opening hours at the main entrance of the LRC hence no response. Where did you put your request? I process all the LRC comments and suggestions and I have not seen anything - before this request - to display opening hours. I understand your frustration but I cannot act without an initial request.
Over the summer LRC opening hours vary from term time. Opening hours are clearly displayed on the plasma screen near the IT Suite doors and on LR Web.
I have not seen any other requests to display opening hours at the main entrance of the LRC hence no response. Where did you put your request? I process all the LRC comments and suggestions and I have not seen anything - before this request - to display opening hours. I understand your frustration but I cannot act without an initial request.
Over the summer LRC opening hours vary from term time. Opening hours are clearly displayed on the plasma screen near the IT Suite doors and on LR Web.
Wednesday 27 May 2009
Your computers are taking beyond reasonable time to log on. It has taken me 15 bad experiences before writing this complaint your standard is unacceptable.
There also seems to be a noticeable (well by me that is) problem with SPSS installment - could this be part of the problem?
The time lost at these ineffective computers can never be returned! Your speed of attention is appreciated.
Thank you for your comment regarding the time it takes to log on to a University pc.
I am sorry that you had to put up with 15 bad experiences before reporting this situation. Unfortunately this is a University wide problem at the moment. Our technical team in ISD are looking into this and are trying to find a solution.
SPSS automatically updates its licence as a part of the log on process and so any general log on problems may affect this process. If you continue to experience problems with this program I would suggest that you go to your tutors in Psychology for advice.
Please be assured that the University is doing everything possible to address and correct this situation.
There also seems to be a noticeable (well by me that is) problem with SPSS installment - could this be part of the problem?
The time lost at these ineffective computers can never be returned! Your speed of attention is appreciated.
Thank you for your comment regarding the time it takes to log on to a University pc.
I am sorry that you had to put up with 15 bad experiences before reporting this situation. Unfortunately this is a University wide problem at the moment. Our technical team in ISD are looking into this and are trying to find a solution.
SPSS automatically updates its licence as a part of the log on process and so any general log on problems may affect this process. If you continue to experience problems with this program I would suggest that you go to your tutors in Psychology for advice.
Please be assured that the University is doing everything possible to address and correct this situation.
Friday 22 May 2009
Social Learning Space Park Square Pods
The pod rooms need to be organised. There should be a minimum amount of people and a max also its not a Mc Donalds frequently I have seen people just eating in it. The rooms should be booked like to edit suites in A block with times at the moment 1st come 1st served is not working and really is not a method which should be used in a University.
Thank you for your comments regarding the social learning space pods. The space is designed for social learning with provision for eating and drinking by way of extra disposal facilities. The space is designed to be as non interventionist as possible hence first come first served access to the pods. Booking systems can fall down when people do not keep their bookings.
We will not be making the pods bookable but I am hoping to trial a booking facility in the autumn term for one of them.
Thank you for your comments regarding the social learning space pods. The space is designed for social learning with provision for eating and drinking by way of extra disposal facilities. The space is designed to be as non interventionist as possible hence first come first served access to the pods. Booking systems can fall down when people do not keep their bookings.
We will not be making the pods bookable but I am hoping to trial a booking facility in the autumn term for one of them.
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Polhill LIbrary - Windows
the opening and closing of the windows seems Unnecessary considering the temperature in the library is always less than warm. This automatic opening needs an over riding button as it is unacceptable for a student in their final year trying to compleat important assinmnets, to have their work disrupted in this way.
I am sorry for the discomfort you are coping with at the moment. Unfortunately due to the design of the heating system at Polhill the windows open and close autuomatically as required by the heating system rather than the temperature of the building. Estates have been looking into this.
I am sorry for the discomfort you are coping with at the moment. Unfortunately due to the design of the heating system at Polhill the windows open and close autuomatically as required by the heating system rather than the temperature of the building. Estates have been looking into this.
Wednesday 22 April 2009
PC Problems
im a final yer 3 studnet trying to complete my disertationa and the computer keeps freezing on microsoft word.. can you please try to sort this out as it is getting really frustrating and i have chnaged 3 computers aswell.. this is not coming from me but other students around me too.
I am sorry that you are experiencing problems with your log on. There are no problems with the University network and there are no problems with your library or network accounts. May I advise you to present your problem to the helpdesk if you continue to experience "freezing".
I am sorry that you are experiencing problems with your log on. There are no problems with the University network and there are no problems with your library or network accounts. May I advise you to present your problem to the helpdesk if you continue to experience "freezing".
PC Problems
hi im a 3rd year student trying to complete my assignments, The system is ridiculous, the internet keeps freezing and the computers are so slow, how can a university service can be so slow, is there any point of having these resources, that you cannot use. This is really frustrating, can you please sort this out
I am sorry that you are experiencing problems with your log on. There are no problems with the University network and there are no problems with your library or network accounts. May I advise you to present your problem to the helpdesk in the LRC if you continue to experience "freezing".
I am sorry that you are experiencing problems with your log on. There are no problems with the University network and there are no problems with your library or network accounts. May I advise you to present your problem to the helpdesk in the LRC if you continue to experience "freezing".
Tuesday 21 April 2009
Heating, Powerpoints, Lockers and Food and Drink
Thank you for your comments and suggestions regarding the LRC. I will try and answer your points one at a time.
Heating
The recent good weather has made the temperatures generally a bit higher than normal. As the LRC is a rather large building any refinements to the thermostat take several days to adjust. Unfortunately the good days are generally followed by a few cooler days and so the thermostat is bouncing up and down and not having much effect. The heating is switched off on 1 May and so overheating won't be an issue (unless we have a really fantastic summer) until October.
Power points for laptops
Unfortunately the original design of the Park Square building did not allow for customer use of power points, hence shortcomings 15 years later. The wall plugs throughout the LRC are available for customer use. The floor plates which appear all over the University present a trip hazard if they are used and so customer use of the floor plates is prohibited. We are looking into this for some smart solutions.
Lockers
The University does not and will not be providing customer lockers in the LRC or anywhere else. Lockers take up an enormous amount of space and the potential for misuse is quite high. I am sorry but this will not be happening
Food and drink
You may eat or drink without restraints in the Social Learning Space (ground floor Park Square LRC). Elsewhere in the LRC bottled drinks and sweets are acceptable but that's all. The space for disposal facilities and well as the noise and potential damage to stock are all reasons (unfortunately discovered through experience) why food and drinks are generally prohibited in the LRC.
Heating
The recent good weather has made the temperatures generally a bit higher than normal. As the LRC is a rather large building any refinements to the thermostat take several days to adjust. Unfortunately the good days are generally followed by a few cooler days and so the thermostat is bouncing up and down and not having much effect. The heating is switched off on 1 May and so overheating won't be an issue (unless we have a really fantastic summer) until October.
Power points for laptops
Unfortunately the original design of the Park Square building did not allow for customer use of power points, hence shortcomings 15 years later. The wall plugs throughout the LRC are available for customer use. The floor plates which appear all over the University present a trip hazard if they are used and so customer use of the floor plates is prohibited. We are looking into this for some smart solutions.
Lockers
The University does not and will not be providing customer lockers in the LRC or anywhere else. Lockers take up an enormous amount of space and the potential for misuse is quite high. I am sorry but this will not be happening
Food and drink
You may eat or drink without restraints in the Social Learning Space (ground floor Park Square LRC). Elsewhere in the LRC bottled drinks and sweets are acceptable but that's all. The space for disposal facilities and well as the noise and potential damage to stock are all reasons (unfortunately discovered through experience) why food and drinks are generally prohibited in the LRC.
Tuesday 7 April 2009
PS LRC Women's Toilets
Thank you for your comment. I can only sympathise and agree with what you say. LRC staff share the same facilities as students. In my experience however people who abuse public facilities do not read the notices asking them to behave appropriately. The cleaners regularly clean the toilets but the high volume of use means that any - shall we say - bad practice has long term consequences.
I will trial a notice and see what happens. I hope it has a positive effect.
I will trial a notice and see what happens. I hope it has a positive effect.
PS IT Suite heat and NOISE
Thanks for your comments
The build up of heat in the IT Suite in recent days is due to unseasonably warm weather. Being a large space it takes a long time to heat up and a long time to cool down so changes are very slow to respond.
The student population's behaviour is causing concern across the whole University - not just the LRC. Its been noted that behaviour in general is unacceptable in both study space and classrooms. We do not have the staffing capacity to baby sit groups of adults. If you notice particularly bad behaviour please could you report it to security or to LR desk staff. Security will patrol and issue written warnings as appropriate.
LR is introducing an anti noise campaign at Park Square and Polhill for 2 weeks. Week 1: 20 - 24 April and week 2: 18 - 22 May. We are hiring extra security to patrol constantly during these weeks (the first back after Easter and then the first week of revision/exams) so that a clear message is given out regarding appropriate behaviour. The campaign is endorsed by the SU and we're hoping that this will have a positive effect.
The build up of heat in the IT Suite in recent days is due to unseasonably warm weather. Being a large space it takes a long time to heat up and a long time to cool down so changes are very slow to respond.
The student population's behaviour is causing concern across the whole University - not just the LRC. Its been noted that behaviour in general is unacceptable in both study space and classrooms. We do not have the staffing capacity to baby sit groups of adults. If you notice particularly bad behaviour please could you report it to security or to LR desk staff. Security will patrol and issue written warnings as appropriate.
LR is introducing an anti noise campaign at Park Square and Polhill for 2 weeks. Week 1: 20 - 24 April and week 2: 18 - 22 May. We are hiring extra security to patrol constantly during these weeks (the first back after Easter and then the first week of revision/exams) so that a clear message is given out regarding appropriate behaviour. The campaign is endorsed by the SU and we're hoping that this will have a positive effect.
Wishful thinking?
I received this anonymous comment:
You should install a chocolate fountain and provide us with marshmellows so we can dip the marshmellows in the chocolate fountain
Paint every wall a different colour
Install a cigarette vending machine
After this you will become the bestest library in the whole wide world.
Thanks for this. :D I feel that although you may have a lot of sympathisers healthy living would preclude adding these suggestions to our standard LRC build!!
You should install a chocolate fountain and provide us with marshmellows so we can dip the marshmellows in the chocolate fountain
Paint every wall a different colour
Install a cigarette vending machine
After this you will become the bestest library in the whole wide world.
Thanks for this. :D I feel that although you may have a lot of sympathisers healthy living would preclude adding these suggestions to our standard LRC build!!
Friday 20 March 2009
Pods in the PS Social Learning Space
The presentation pods in the Social Learning Space should be bookable...
When we opened the Social Learning Space resource (Dec 2007) we did consider making the pods bookable from the beginning. It was felt that to encourage use and to make the Social Learning Space generally as non interventionist as possible we should make it an open resource. Use of the pods has been on a drop in, first come first served basis.
I am more than prepared to review this but need to look at the booking procedures to make it as fluid as possible. If after negotiation with my colleagues in the rest LR, I can source a robust booking product I would be happy to trial designating one of the pods as a bookable resource to see what the take up is and if booking works.
Sorry I cannot give you a more immediate response but I will definitely follow this up.
When we opened the Social Learning Space resource (Dec 2007) we did consider making the pods bookable from the beginning. It was felt that to encourage use and to make the Social Learning Space generally as non interventionist as possible we should make it an open resource. Use of the pods has been on a drop in, first come first served basis.
I am more than prepared to review this but need to look at the booking procedures to make it as fluid as possible. If after negotiation with my colleagues in the rest LR, I can source a robust booking product I would be happy to trial designating one of the pods as a bookable resource to see what the take up is and if booking works.
Sorry I cannot give you a more immediate response but I will definitely follow this up.
Lap tops trailing wires
.... not being allowed to use my laptop in an area I need due to posing a "Health and Safety" hazard.....
There is a general instruction not to plug laptops (or any electrical gadgets) into floor plates as they create a trip hazard. There are designated "plug in points" all round the LRC.
As you mention that you are a law student am I correct to assume that you were plugged into one of the floor plates on level 2?
If that was the case floor plates are a hazard and there is a general embargo (except for the Social Learning Space) on customers using them in the LRC (this is re-inforced with messages stuck to the floor plates and with posters), you need to find a wall plug that doesn't result in dangerous trailing wires to safely plug in your laptop.
Thanks
There is a general instruction not to plug laptops (or any electrical gadgets) into floor plates as they create a trip hazard. There are designated "plug in points" all round the LRC.
As you mention that you are a law student am I correct to assume that you were plugged into one of the floor plates on level 2?
If that was the case floor plates are a hazard and there is a general embargo (except for the Social Learning Space) on customers using them in the LRC (this is re-inforced with messages stuck to the floor plates and with posters), you need to find a wall plug that doesn't result in dangerous trailing wires to safely plug in your laptop.
Thanks
LRC Silent areas
It's a shame that the university library "silent area" isn't silent at all...
Thank you for your comments about the silent area at Park Square LRC.
The designated silent areas in: Park Street and on levels 2 & 3, are maintained by customer consent and by security patrols. There are - inevitably - individuals who abuse the study environment. If this happens in your experience you need to report it to security level 0 LRC barriers directly or, to the LRC staff on duty at the counter on level 1. There are penalties in place for breech of the code of conduct.
I understand your frustration especially when the University provides a very comfortable and attractive social learning space where conversation is positively encouraged.
Please persevere and report unacceptable noise levels so that they can be addressed.
Thank you for your comments about the silent area at Park Square LRC.
The designated silent areas in: Park Street and on levels 2 & 3, are maintained by customer consent and by security patrols. There are - inevitably - individuals who abuse the study environment. If this happens in your experience you need to report it to security level 0 LRC barriers directly or, to the LRC staff on duty at the counter on level 1. There are penalties in place for breech of the code of conduct.
I understand your frustration especially when the University provides a very comfortable and attractive social learning space where conversation is positively encouraged.
Please persevere and report unacceptable noise levels so that they can be addressed.
Friday 13 February 2009
Lost files
I am surprised to find out that the University as a big organisation with important student information does not have a backup. My files went missing from my u-drive and then when I asked for help I was told that there is no back to retireve my files.
Please find a way that can be helpful to students.
The company running the IT facilities for this Uni must have a data back up system
Thank you for your comments. Looking at your circumstances I have to tell you that the files you "lost" were never saved in the first place. Your network space was full when to you tried to save the files and therefore the items are lost and irretrievable. Data back up would not help you in these circumstances.
Every student has a 100 mgb allowance on the University's network. As your network space was full you should have deleted some files/folders or archived some older material on a USB at the time. As a Computer Networking student I am sure you are aware that although you may have created space after you tried to save the files they do not get stored in a strange "cache" in case of this eventuality.
Please may I encourage you to carry out regular house keeping on your network space to avoid this happening again.
Please find a way that can be helpful to students.
The company running the IT facilities for this Uni must have a data back up system
Thank you for your comments. Looking at your circumstances I have to tell you that the files you "lost" were never saved in the first place. Your network space was full when to you tried to save the files and therefore the items are lost and irretrievable. Data back up would not help you in these circumstances.
Every student has a 100 mgb allowance on the University's network. As your network space was full you should have deleted some files/folders or archived some older material on a USB at the time. As a Computer Networking student I am sure you are aware that although you may have created space after you tried to save the files they do not get stored in a strange "cache" in case of this eventuality.
Please may I encourage you to carry out regular house keeping on your network space to avoid this happening again.
Friday 30 January 2009
Polhill: Word problems
why is it whenever we open a word document we get all these smart board messeges that disallow us from entering the word documents.
Thank you for your comments regarding Word. I am sorry that you have been experiencing difficulties. I have spoken to the IT support team at Polhill library and this is their reply:
This has been flagged up to ISD and the problem is three fold.
1) Word is saying the digital signature is not correct
2) a different program's template requires Word macro's to be run
3) the latest Smartboard software was requested and installed quickly without, unfortunately properly testing how it would effect other programs.
At a recent meeting with ISD staff the problem has been raised again and although there isn't a clear time scale to when these problems would be fixed across the University Polhill staff will look at the problem to check if anything can be done locally to improve things.
Thank you for your patience
Thank you for your comments regarding Word. I am sorry that you have been experiencing difficulties. I have spoken to the IT support team at Polhill library and this is their reply:
This has been flagged up to ISD and the problem is three fold.
1) Word is saying the digital signature is not correct
2) a different program's template requires Word macro's to be run
3) the latest Smartboard software was requested and installed quickly without, unfortunately properly testing how it would effect other programs.
At a recent meeting with ISD staff the problem has been raised again and although there isn't a clear time scale to when these problems would be fixed across the University Polhill staff will look at the problem to check if anything can be done locally to improve things.
Thank you for your patience
Tuesday 27 January 2009
Print Credit Machines
The machines used to credit our accounts for prints in the LRC have been out of use for months now.
I have on many occasions found this very inconvenient I would like to see them working again. What are University's plans for this.
Thank you for your comments. I am sorry about the inconvenience caused by the lack of self service print credit machines. This is a problem we have been monitoring for a while. The University is about to change the print credit software/hardware provider. Before we change over we have a robust system of testing and checking to go through. This is so that we don't replace a poor product with another poor product. Unfortunately while this process is going on we have to put up with the old product.
I have no date for implementation at this stage but it will be this year. Please ask at the Customer Service desk for assistance with crediting your print account.
I have on many occasions found this very inconvenient I would like to see them working again. What are University's plans for this.
Thank you for your comments. I am sorry about the inconvenience caused by the lack of self service print credit machines. This is a problem we have been monitoring for a while. The University is about to change the print credit software/hardware provider. Before we change over we have a robust system of testing and checking to go through. This is so that we don't replace a poor product with another poor product. Unfortunately while this process is going on we have to put up with the old product.
I have no date for implementation at this stage but it will be this year. Please ask at the Customer Service desk for assistance with crediting your print account.
Monday 26 January 2009
Putteridge Bury LRC
1) I think there should be more computers so that there would be enough room for students who'd like to do assignments and projects during lecture hours
2) We need more books for students studying marketing communication
3) There should be enough reading tables and chairs to accommodate students
Apart from that everything's fine
Thank you for your comments Violet. They underline the remarks made at a recent open international student meeting at Putteridge Bury. The University is delighted with the take up of courses by international students this year and it is doing everything possible to accommodate the needs of this group.
1) The computer issue was problematic when we discovered that we couldn't support laptop loans at Putteridge Bury. 20 pcs are being installed in the studio and silent study room at Putteridge Bury LRC to address the current paucity of the ratio of pcs to students.
2) All students cry out for more books but this coupled with a rapid increase in student numbers will have an impact. This issue is being addressed. In the meantime please take advantage of the inter-site reservation service by requesting Park Square and Polhill items to be delivered to you (please make sure the catalogue states that an item is "available" or you could have a long wait) and/or please use the Putt bus to come into Luton and visit the Park Square campus (don't forget your ID).
3) Regarding furniture provision we have the same problem in that a large increase in usual student numbers makes current provision seem lower than usual. This is exacerbated by the fact that we have to find somewhere for the extra pcs. Sorry this may take a while to sort out as we have to get the other changes in place before we can do anything about furniture, please bear with us. Your comments have been heard and we are trying to address them.
Thanks for your patience
s
2) We need more books for students studying marketing communication
3) There should be enough reading tables and chairs to accommodate students
Apart from that everything's fine
Thank you for your comments Violet. They underline the remarks made at a recent open international student meeting at Putteridge Bury. The University is delighted with the take up of courses by international students this year and it is doing everything possible to accommodate the needs of this group.
1) The computer issue was problematic when we discovered that we couldn't support laptop loans at Putteridge Bury. 20 pcs are being installed in the studio and silent study room at Putteridge Bury LRC to address the current paucity of the ratio of pcs to students.
2) All students cry out for more books but this coupled with a rapid increase in student numbers will have an impact. This issue is being addressed. In the meantime please take advantage of the inter-site reservation service by requesting Park Square and Polhill items to be delivered to you (please make sure the catalogue states that an item is "available" or you could have a long wait) and/or please use the Putt bus to come into Luton and visit the Park Square campus (don't forget your ID).
3) Regarding furniture provision we have the same problem in that a large increase in usual student numbers makes current provision seem lower than usual. This is exacerbated by the fact that we have to find somewhere for the extra pcs. Sorry this may take a while to sort out as we have to get the other changes in place before we can do anything about furniture, please bear with us. Your comments have been heard and we are trying to address them.
Thanks for your patience
s
Tannoy
Just a thought really could the library have a tannoy system that links to the library on all 3 floors to indicate to students when the library closes rather than staff walking to all 3 floors, quiet areas to tell students the library is closing.
PS think its a good idea got it from the British Library
Thank you for your suggestion. I would dearly love a tannoy system at Park Square (and possibly Polhill too). The University priced a system up 2 years ago. Unfortunately it was prohibitively high and so the idea was shelved. We do not have the same budget as the British Library - sadly!
Thanks
s
PS think its a good idea got it from the British Library
Thank you for your suggestion. I would dearly love a tannoy system at Park Square (and possibly Polhill too). The University priced a system up 2 years ago. Unfortunately it was prohibitively high and so the idea was shelved. We do not have the same budget as the British Library - sadly!
Thanks
s
Print Crediting
I'm not happy about the fact that I'm unable to credit my account after 10pm because the machines don't work. It can be quite an inconvenience at times in the day when there can be up to a 10 minute wait just to get my account credited when I know this can be avoided.
I am sorry about the problems you have with crediting your print account.
The University is in the throws of changing the hardware and software for self service print credits. Unfortunately until that process is complete the broken machines will be nursed until the end of their contract which may well mean that there are times when they won't work. My best advice to you - if the machine isn't working - is to choose a time when there isn't a queue and top up around 9.30pm.
The new print credit system will be a lot more user friendly please bear with us while we bring it in.
Thanks
I am sorry about the problems you have with crediting your print account.
The University is in the throws of changing the hardware and software for self service print credits. Unfortunately until that process is complete the broken machines will be nursed until the end of their contract which may well mean that there are times when they won't work. My best advice to you - if the machine isn't working - is to choose a time when there isn't a queue and top up around 9.30pm.
The new print credit system will be a lot more user friendly please bear with us while we bring it in.
Thanks
Air Quality in LRC
Most of the times in the library areas air is very stuffy and it is really hot, which makes it unpleasant place to be in. Today 20.1.09 there is the same problem in the Social learning area.
My suggestion would be to pay more attention to these issues, perhaps monitor them more closely and when necessary adjust the air conditioning, timely because as I have found out today, staff has requested that to be done but no action still seems to be taken.
Thank you for your comments. The University is aware that there are occasions when the air quality in the LRC suffers from over heating. This is mainly due to the size of the building. Heating such a large open space takes a long time so any adjustments to thermostats takes a while to be effective on the over all temperature.
The LRC does not have any air-conditioning and due to the negative carbon footprint of introducing any this will not be on any future plans for the building. The Social Learning Space does have an air circulation system that helps keep the air quality good in that space. if you notice any discomfort please report it to the level 1 Customer Service Desk so that an adjustment may be requested. Unfortunately if this is after 5pm this will not be acted on immediately as the staff do not cover out of office hours.
This coupled with the fact that January temperatures have fluctuated so dramatically over the course of 3 weeks its not surprising that the heating system is over compensating. Hopefully this will settle down in the next few weeks.
My suggestion would be to pay more attention to these issues, perhaps monitor them more closely and when necessary adjust the air conditioning, timely because as I have found out today, staff has requested that to be done but no action still seems to be taken.
Thank you for your comments. The University is aware that there are occasions when the air quality in the LRC suffers from over heating. This is mainly due to the size of the building. Heating such a large open space takes a long time so any adjustments to thermostats takes a while to be effective on the over all temperature.
The LRC does not have any air-conditioning and due to the negative carbon footprint of introducing any this will not be on any future plans for the building. The Social Learning Space does have an air circulation system that helps keep the air quality good in that space. if you notice any discomfort please report it to the level 1 Customer Service Desk so that an adjustment may be requested. Unfortunately if this is after 5pm this will not be acted on immediately as the staff do not cover out of office hours.
This coupled with the fact that January temperatures have fluctuated so dramatically over the course of 3 weeks its not surprising that the heating system is over compensating. Hopefully this will settle down in the next few weeks.
Noise in LRC after 10pm
Thank you for your comments. I am sorry about the levels of noise you have been coping with recently. As your comments seem to be about the service between 10pm - 2am I feel I must clarify that there are no quiet/silent study spaces available at that time. The IT Suite is a quiet working space and the Social Learning Space is what it says, a comfortable social environment designed for group and discussion work. I am afraid that it is inevitable that noise levels will be louder here than in a traditional library space.
Security will intervene (and I will pass your comments to the Head of Security) but within reason. Undue noise can be reduced but there will always be the noise of human interaction at all times both in the IT Suite and the Social Learning Space. Please continue to report unacceptable levels of noise in the IT Suite to security and they will patrol to reduce the overall volume. I am sorry but you'll have to put up with the fact that these areas will at best, only be "quiet". They are not intended for silence.
Security will intervene (and I will pass your comments to the Head of Security) but within reason. Undue noise can be reduced but there will always be the noise of human interaction at all times both in the IT Suite and the Social Learning Space. Please continue to report unacceptable levels of noise in the IT Suite to security and they will patrol to reduce the overall volume. I am sorry but you'll have to put up with the fact that these areas will at best, only be "quiet". They are not intended for silence.
Tuesday 20 January 2009
Message for Kozo
Dear Kozo
The problem is with your Faculty and your registration details. You need to sort it out with them. I cannot intervene on your behalf as a) its inappropriate and b) you will not get the quickest response.
Please contact your Faculty as soon as possible.
The problem is with your Faculty and your registration details. You need to sort it out with them. I cannot intervene on your behalf as a) its inappropriate and b) you will not get the quickest response.
Please contact your Faculty as soon as possible.
Monday 19 January 2009
Access to Netmail - Putteridge Bury Student
I cannot get log in the Student Net mail. Could you please sort it out so that I can get due service as a registered students. I definitely want a responsible reply as soon as possible as I have been unable to get access to the Student Net mail for long.
On investigation your status within the Unversity is not Current and so you do not have any rights to access University resources, including Netmail. If this is incorrect please go to the LRC Customer Service desk to resolve this.
Thanks
On investigation your status within the Unversity is not Current and so you do not have any rights to access University resources, including Netmail. If this is incorrect please go to the LRC Customer Service desk to resolve this.
Thanks
Netmail Query
Dear Kozo
Thanks for your email:
Could you please sort it out so that I can get due service as a registered students. I definitely want a responsible reply as soon as possible as I have been unable to get access to the Student Net mail for long.
I have checked your account and your Netmail account should be working fine now.
If you experience problems with any of your accounts please go straight to the Customer Service desk at Putteridge LRC or ring (01582) 743488.
Thanks
Thanks for your email:
Could you please sort it out so that I can get due service as a registered students. I definitely want a responsible reply as soon as possible as I have been unable to get access to the Student Net mail for long.
I have checked your account and your Netmail account should be working fine now.
If you experience problems with any of your accounts please go straight to the Customer Service desk at Putteridge LRC or ring (01582) 743488.
Thanks
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