Seems an easy solution to Lori's problem would be a small open bin that
libraries could supply so people can carry their "tools" of research and
still have them visible to library personnel. Don't know if this is
practical from a library point of view, but it seems it would make a
researcher's life a lot simpler.



on 2/21/02 05:46 PM, Lori Allen at [log in to unmask] wrote:

> As a graduate research assistant I utilize three different libraries with
> very strict security for their archives.  In the larger facility, you may
> bring in paper.  That's it.  They provide pencils.  No purses, handbags,
> briefcases, book bags of any kind are allowed.  They provide lockers in the
> lobby at no charge.  Many researchers bring in lap tops (no case).
> At the on-campus library, you are allowed a small notebook and pencil in the
> rare-book reading room.  Lockers are provided at no charge for bags and
> coats.  At the main branch of the county library in the special collections
> unit, you may bring in a lap top without its case, some notepaper and a
> pencil.  No purses, bags of any kind and no 3-ring binders, books,
> notebooks, etc. may by brought into the area. They did not make me check my
> coat, however.
> I operate on a strictly electronic format.  I use a Palm m500 with keyboard
> and software that runs MS Word and Excel documents.  I keep both the Palm
> and the keyboard in tight-fitting cases and have had no problem with
> bringing any of these items into these 3 facilities.
>
> Personally, I find it somewhat annoying because I can't carry my phone (on
> vibrate), Palm w/keyboard, wallet for copies and keys all at the same time.
> Plus, then when I get up to check something else, I have to leave my stuff
> unattended while I am across the room.  I can understand the security needs
> and support the no book bags, large notebook part of it, but I do wish
> purses were allowed (or some type of SMALL bag) which I would gladly consent
> to having checked upon exit.
>
>
> Lori Allen,
> Grad Student, UMSL

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