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Reference Area Computers

In an effort to ensure that students have access to available resources, computers in the Reference area will require a logon. Students will need a Student Computing Services account, which they can obtain in the MS, BB, or DT computer lab. Faculty and staff will need to sign in using their Network Services account.

A small number of guest computers will be reserved for non-UTSA patrons (including alumni and friends of the library card holders) needing access to research sources. These computers will have a thirty-minute time limit enforced, in order to ensure access to a greater number of people.

Please see the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for more information.

Reference Computers - FAQ

Q: How do I log onto the computers?
A:  Students will need to use their Student Computing Services Lab Account. This account can be obtained in the Business Building Computer Lab (BB 2.01.20), the Multidisciplinary Studies Computer Lab (MS 1.03.06), or the Downtown Computer Lab (FS 2.400). You will need to present your UTSA Card to set up your account. *Accounts cannot be set up in the library*
Faculty and staff will need to use their Network Services account.
Guests have access to a limited number of guest stations at the UTSA Library. Guests are not able to use the Library Electronic Classroom (LEC) and therefore do not have access to Microsoft Office and other application software programs.

Q: I am a member of the Alumni Association or a Friends of the Library card holder, what computer can I use?
A:  Alumni and Friends of the Library card holders only have access to a limited number of guest stations at the UTSA Library. They are not able to use the Library Electronic Classroom (LEC) and therefore do not have access to Microsoft Office and other application software programs. Only current students, faculty, and staff have access to the UTSA Only computers.

Q: Will the computer automatically log me out when I am done?
A:  No, for security purposes it is important that you log out of the computer when you are finished using it. Otherwise, others may have access to your account. To log off, click on the "Start" button and then click on "Log Off".

Q: What if I forget my password?
A:  Students will need to go to one of the computer labs on campus to have their account reset. This can be done in the Business Building Computer Lab (BB 2.01.20), the Multidisciplinary Studies Computer Lab (MS 1.03.06), or the Downtown Computer Lab (FS 2.400). You must provide your UTSA Card when resetting your password.
Faculty and Staff will need to contact the HelpDesk (458-5538, http://www.utsa.edu/infotech/TechSupp/HD/HDweb.htm) to have their password reset.
Students, Faculty and Staff can change their password in the Reference Electronic Resources area or in the Library Electronic Classroom (LEC) if it is about to expire.

Q: What happens during intersession and/or the summer?
A:  Students will have access to the computers during intersession; however, they will not be able to logon during summer session, unless they are enrolled for classes.
Faculty and Staff will have access to the computers as long as they are employed by UTSA and have been provided a Network Services account.

Q: Is there a time limit to use the computers?
A:  There is no time limit to use the UTSA Only computers. There is a thirty minute time limit for guest computers. Use is restricted to academic purposes. No games, chat, pornography, day trading, e-mail, shopping or other non-academic uses are allowed. Computers may be monitored for appropriate use and disciplinary action can be taken.

Q: What software is available on the computers?
A:  You will have access to Internet Explorer and Adobe Acrobat Reader on Reference computers. You will not have access to any other type of software. Please use the Library Electronic Classroom (LEC) if you need access to Word, PowerPoint, or other application software. Guests do not have access to the LEC.

Q:  Why can’t I see my document in WebCT? Why can’t I find Word or PowerPoint on the computer?
A: The Reference Electronic Resource area is primarily to be used for research and no application software is available on the computers in this area. Students, faculty, and staff can utilize the Library Electronic Classroom (LEC) if they need this type of software. Guests do not have access to the LEC or any other computing labs on campus.

Q: Can I print in the library?
A:  Students can print in the library using their PrintSmart account. For questions about printing, please see: http://www.lib.utsa.edu/Services/General/Print/.
Faculty, Staff, and Guests must pay for printing in the library. Please see http://www.lib.utsa.edu/Services/General/Print/ for more information.