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This article describes the public computing center project initiated by the Charles County Public Library (CCPL) in Maryland to address the nation's digital divide. It also discusses public computer and broadband Internet access as a popular service offered by public libraries, the challenges of expanding public computer and broadband access in a library system, and the assumptions and opportunities that have guided the project. The article also details how a public computer center works and outlines the benefits of the effort.

The article offers information on electronic resource management system (ERMS) used by libraries. An ERMS is a software module that assists the library in managing all the details related to its subscriptions to electronic content. One of the most obvious trends in libraries over the last decade involves the shift toward providing electronic content for the benefit of library patrons. Almost all libraries provide some form of electronic information. The overall volume of econtent to which the library subscribes is one factor leading to the need for an electronic resource management system. The other factor is the complexity of how it acquires that content.

The article presented information on text-to-speech (TTS) computer software. This software offers the affordable ability to turn just about any electronic text that is not image-based into an artificially spoken communication. TTS can be used to create an audible substitute for--or complement to--visual reading. TTS software forms the basis of screen reader software that greatly improves the accessibility of electronic information for people who are blind or who experience temporary or permanent low vision. Interest in the use of TTS software is increasing among libraries and library patrons. The factors which need to be considered when exploring and testing available stand-alone ITS software packages are discussed.

This article offers ideas on choosing personal computer (PC) management software products that are oriented toward library or education users. One need to find the right balance of security and functionality. Not enough security may put the computer and even the entire associated network at risk. One will also need to update the antivirus signature files at least daily. Spyware is a huge category of malicious software. Patron authentication can be a very useful feature, especially when one have a large number of PC. For example, a patron may need to have a valid library bar code, fines less than $10, and be an adult resident to be able to use the Internet on a public PC. Reservation and session management features have become necessary in many libraries due to the popularity of their public access computers. If a library lends wireless devices such as laptops, one should double-check that a PC management application works with them. One may want to settle on two or three products and then try them out. PC management products will need to adapt to new risks by quickly incorporating necessary modifications and enhancements. On the advanced features side, integration and multifunctionality have been important trends.

The article presents information on various public access computer software management tools for use in libraries. The Web is very popular with library patrons. As a result, they will attempt to use every available computer for general Web access. Sometimes, these can be computers designated for online catalogs or licensed database use only. Public Web Browser (PWB) from TeamSoftware Solutions controls Web browser sessions. PWB replaces the Internet Explorer interface with an interface that is highly configurable. It allows users to specify sites that can or cannot be accessed via the browser. Running anti-spyware software on a system for the first time can be an enlightening experience. Free anti-spyware software can be downloaded from several sites. Microsoft has developed a patch management tool called Software Update Services. It is used to deploy critical Windows updates throughout the library. Meanwhile, EnvisionWare's PC Reservation software controls patron access to public access computers. It can work to authenticate patrons prior to granting access to computer. It can be configured for use in a patron self-service mode or a staff-managed mode. It even supports making reservations via the Web or telephone.

Discusses the four-year life cycle of most library hardware and software. The lack of support for Windows 95 by Microsoft Corp.; Advantages to upgrading operating systems; The uselessness of some upgrades in library systems software; The decreased cost of hardware and the increased cost of software; The issue of centralized management of software. INSET: A Tip for Handling Public Web Browsers.

Reports on the availability of Serials Cybrarian from Creative Library Software. Features of the software, including a search engine; Features which allow library patrons to monitor patron database usage statistics; Other features.

Reports that Sagebrush Corp. has announced that its WebManager Suite featuring I-Gear from Symantec Corp. complies with HR4577, The Children's Internet Protection Act. How the software allows school library professionals to evaluate Web sites; Multiple levels of access protection which can be adjusted for age-appropriate content.

Notes the release of CybraryN, public access control software from Computers By Design Inc. The ability of the software to allow systems administrators to reduce maintenance of public access computers; Prevention of installation of software, changing of system settings or accessing of restricted files; Other features including the use of Smart Save Technology.