Since my first post on Internet Station Management (ISM) I received a mailing from Fortres Grand Corporation on their newest Time Limit Manager. The system promises:
- Fair and appropriate use of public access computers
- Easy allocation of computer time
- A “reservation ticket system” to limit time
- End sessions at library closing
- No hardware or personnel needed
This, I was promised, could be mine for the low price of $25. Digging further I found that the $25 price tag was for a single license. Not so good if you have more than one computer in your library. Prices for 25 computers, the next option up, are $195.
Time Limit Manager seems like it would be a good option if you are looking to get patrons in and out quick. Once a ticket is handed out the patron only has the allotted time, even if nobody else is waiting. This is probably the greatest disadvantage. I was, also, concerned with the following quote:
Librarian’s can view screen shots, end sessions, and send messages reminding particular patrons of appropriate use.
While I realize you can see the same thing by walking past a computer, I felt like gaining screen shots could be an infringement of the user’s privacy. Then again, the feature doesn’t have to be used.
The main concern I have is figuring out who is supposed to receive passes. If your library requires that an “Internet Use Policy” be signed there is no way to keep track of this information with the system. Every time someone comes in they are given a different code to use. In short this software is not making it easier on the librarian or the patron.
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