Internet is now at the Main Library

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Readers respond: nomadic homeless camps?

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by Ruth Mountaingrove

Photo: The Library joins major libraries internationally to give its patrons access to the Internet. Pictured are Joyce Johnson, head of the reference department; Ruth Mountaingrove seated at the computer; Smugglers system operater Casey Meaden; and Friend of the Library Nancy Nieboer. Photo by Barbara Clark

You'll find something new at the Humboldt County Library in Eureka- access to the Internet for people doing research.

The Humboldt Community Information Network (HCIN) has set up an Internet terminal across from the reference desk. Thanks to Smuggler's BBS and Casey Meaden, its local system operator, there is a much-used computer and monitor complete with ethernet card, keyboard, modem and mouse. The connection to the Internet is through the county's Computer Information Services Department.

Volunteer docents stand by to help those who need it 15 hours a week. A sign-up sheet is posted at the Reference Desk.

The Internet system has some restrictions. If you are younger than 18 years of age, you have to have your parents consent before you can use it. No games are allowed - this computer is for research - and no e-mail or chat.

If you are an adult, it is hoped that you will use the facility as you would use the rest of the library when you are doing research. There are no restrictions except cost. The library is charging $1.50 per half hour for the use of the computer. While this is not pricey, it is not free either. The printer charge is 10 cents a page.

Some people think this is a really good deal. A woman came down from Orick to do research, paid $3 and added another $7 as a donation, she was so pleased.

What might you want to look up? One popular topic is genealogy-your family tree. It could be research in care and feeding of orchids. How about learning about another country with maps and photographs?

What are you curious about? There are probably millions of pieces of information out on the net. Even if your question seems unusual, there are probably one or two pieces that will tell you exactly what you want to know. It is important to narrow down your search because you are working under some pressure with the time limits imposed by both library and docent hours.

When you sit down at the Internet computer you see a picture of the library's home page. There is some history and a welcome. As you scroll down the page (touch the mouse to the arrow on your right) you begin to see categories starting with A for Art, and on through Z . Clicking the mouse with the arrow on Art will give you more choices-you might want to look up museums and this could lead you to the Louvre or the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. This is pretty impressive and is again thanks to Casey and other HCIN members who have supplied URLs (Universal Resource Locator), places on the net where you can find information.

The first Friday I was there I saw a lot of book oriented people going by. While it was quiet that Friday, I suspect that as the word about the Internet connection gets around, many people will use this wonderful resource.

I am one of the docents. If you want me to introduce you to the Internet or help you in your search, my hours are Fridays from 1-3 p.m. Call ahead to the Reference Desk to reserve the time, 707-269-1905 during library hours.

One-time article Copyright 1997 by Humboldt Senior Resource Center.