Shiffman Medical Library
Community Access Terminals
To use most computers in the libraries, you must be currently affiliated with Wayne State University as an enrolled student or a current or retired faculty or staff member.
Specially designated Community Access Terminals (CATs) are available in the Undergraduate Library to other users such as members of the community, students from other institutions and alumni/ae. Certain conditions to usage apply (please see the Community Access Terminals Use Policy).
Procedures for Community Access to computing:
Community Users may obtain a login for the Community Access Terminals (CATs) by visiting the desk at the Computing Support Center in the Undergraduate Library. All community users will be required to show a valid picture ID in order to obtain their permanent CATs ID.
All community users must receive a copy of the CATs Use Policy. Community users who violate the CATs Use Policy will be asked to leave the library and will have their CATs privileges revoked for the remainder of the semester. They may re-apply for access at the beginning of the next semester and must do so through a User Services/Help Desk supervisor.
We will no longer give CATs IDs to users under approximately age 14-- users must show a picture ID which could be a high school ID card. Users under 14 may use a parent or guardian's ID but only if they are being actively supervised by said parent or guardian--meaning that parent or guardian needs to be sitting right there at the computer with the child.
- Appropriate picture/photo ID from community use
- Drivers License
- State-issued ID
- High School ID with picture
- Users should receive a copy of the policy
- Users should not give out their ID or password to anyone else or it will be revoked for the remainder of the semester and they will have to re-apply to a supervisor to receive a new one.
What software is currently installed on the CATs?
The CATs have a full complement of Microsoft Office software, an Internet web
browser and the ability to print (for a
small fee). Use of the CATs is limited
to one hour if someone is waiting.
What if I need computing help?
The student lab assistants will continue to help all patrons in the library-though
the assistant's first priority will remain WSU affiliates. (The Computer Support
Desk is located inside the Extended Study Center). Online help, books and manuals
are suggested.
Why were the Community Access Terminals created?
The libraries currently provide much of the computing resources on campus, serving
thousands of students and hundreds of Wayne State faculty and staff members.
However, our role as a technology resource has increased to the point that usage
now outstrips the resources. While we recognize the importance of our relationship
with the community at large, our priority remains directed towards providing
computing services to WSU affiliates. This is consistent with other facilities
on campus and at other state universities.