Library Information Technology
Standard Staff Workstation Policies
The goal of End-Point Technologies and Services (EPT&S) to ensure a secure staff workstation infrastructure that supports the basic missions of the Yale University Library.
Workstations
Each library staff member will be provided with a networked computer that supports the standard applications needed to be effective in their work under normal circumstances. EPT&S will provide and support only one desktop workstation (or laptop if the staff position warrants one) per staff member. Managers who feel a staff member needs more than one workstation will need to submit an exception. Such a request will be reviewed by the EPT&S Manager who will make the final decision whether to request will be granted.
Monitors
Users are entitled to select either a single (maximum 23”). If a user desires a dual monitor setup larger than 17”, the cost of the second monitor must be paid for by the department. Likewise, if the user desires a monitor larger than 23”, to select either a single (maximum 23”). If a user desires a dual monitor setup larger than 17”, the cost of the monitor must be paid for by the department. EPT&S staff can assist the department manager in identifying the best configuration for the work environment.
Laptops
A laptop, docking station, monitor(s), keyboard and mouse can be provided upon request. A laptop deployment is a substitution for a standard workstation deployment, and will not be provided by Library IT in addition to a standard workstation. EPT&S will partially subsidize the cost of a laptop deployment up to the current value of a standard computer and monitor. The remaining cost must be paid for by the department. The EPT&S Manager will help configure an appropriate system and provide an estimate of cost.
Macs
In cases where a staff member does not require access to Voyager (Windows only) to perform their work, a Mac computer can be requested. Typically, a Mac will be more expensive than a comparably configured Windows workstation. Therefore, EPT&Swill partially subsidize the cost of a Mac deployment up to the current value of a standard workstation. The remaining cost must be paid for by the department. The EPT&S Manager will help configure an appropriate system and provide an estimate of cost.
Non-standard Workstations
In some cases, the roles and responsibilities of the user may warrant a more powerful workstation. EPT&Swill partially subsidize the cost of a special use system up to the current value of a standard workstation system. The remaining cost must be paid for by the department. The EPT&SManager will help configure an appropriate system and provide an estimate of cost.
Tablets and Mobile Computer Devices
Tablets and mobile computing devices, such as iPads, must be purchased solely with departmental funds. It is highly recommended that extended warranties such as AppleCare+ be considered when purchasing these mobile devices. The EPT&S Manager will help select an appropriate device and EPT&S staff will configure, deploy and support these systems. Cell phones such as iPhones, Androids, and Blackberries, or any device that incurs a recurring data charge will generally not be supported.
Workstation Replacement Cycle
Computers have a limited functional life. EPT&S will leave typical staff workstation systems deployed for 5 years. We will actively monitor which systems are reaching “end-of-life” and will deploy replacement systems accordingly. In some cases, faulty workstations that are out of warranty may be replaced before reaching 5 years of age if the repair is deemed cost-prohibitive.
Public Workstations
Public workstations are located throughout the Yale University Library system. Many of these public clusters are managed by the Academic Computing Services group in ITS. Please contact the ITS Service Desk at 2-9000 to report issues with these systems.