Good luck with your questions. I have copied the Open Source In
Libraries list with this message as well. :)

Darrell Eifert wrote:
> Hi Folks --
>
> I will be delivering an "Introduction to Linux" seminar at the New Hampshire
Library Conference next spring, and several topics are sure to come up for which
I have no good answers at the moment. In no particular order, they are:
>
> When there is a problem with hardware / network / software, who do I call?
How much will it cost?
>
> How do I lock down a public-use Linux desktop so that wallpaper cannot be
changed to something "interesting" or icons deleted? Is there an open-source
equivalent to DeepFreeze or Fortres (and I emphasize "free and open-source")
that works on more than one distribution?
>
> Is there a free and open-source equivalent to Fortres Time Limit Manager that
allows me to give printed-ticket access to timed patron-use workstations, as
well as monitor the screen (if necessary) of each computer to ensure compliance
with our internet access policy?
>
> Has anyone installed the various ILS modules intended for Windows (such as
from The Library Corporation) successfully under Linux using WINE?
>
> Are there any libraries who have successfully moved from Windows or Mac to an
all-Linux environment, including public, staff, and server systems? Why?
>
> I'm sure there will be more, but these will do for a start. "Free software"
is a very attractive slogan, but there are some hard questions that library
decision makers face when contemplating the switch. If my Circulation / ILS
system MUST be Windows-based, is Linux a good choice for staff and public?
Especially if there is no lock-down or time-management software available except
for a purchase price that pretty much erases the free (cost) software advantage?
>
> Best,
> -- Darrell
--
Allen D. Tate
Head of Computer Services
Ohio Township Public Library System
4111 Lakeshore Dr
PO Box 850
Newburgh, IN 47629
(812) 853-5468 x 313

http://www.ohio.lib.in.us/ (Library Home Page)
http://www.opensourceinlibraries.com/ (Open Source In Libraries)

The views expressed in this message are not necessarily
those of the Ohio Township Public Library System.