Computing FAQ
If I want to have access to a wide variety of software programs, which computers do I use?
In an effort to speed start up time for computers in Bracken, the PCs in certain areas of the library have a limited number of software programs installed.
If you're in Bracken Library looking for the full complement of software programs, you'll want to head to Educational Resources (Lower Level), the second floor, or the dual monitor computers on fourth floor. The Architecture Library and Science-Health Science Library both also have the wide variety of software on their computers.
To check if a specific software title is available in the University Libraries, consult the Software Locator.
If I just want to do word processing and check my email, which computers will log on the fastest?
In an effort to speed start up time for computers in Bracken, the PCs in certain areas of the library have a limited number of software programs installed.
If you're in Bracken and want to just check your email or use any of the basic Microsoft Office programs (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Access), just hop on one of the PCs on the first floor, the third floor, or the single monitor computers on the fourth floor. For a specific list of the software available in the University Libraries, consult the Software Locator.
Is there a computer lab in the Libraries?
There are a lot of computers for you to use in the Libraries! The majority of the computers in Bracken Library are located in the Reference area on 1 West; however, there are computers distributed on every floor of the library.
The Helen B. and Martin D. Schwartz Special Collections and Digital Complex is located on the south west side of the first floor of Bracken. This area features specialized digital technology enabling collaboration and innovation. It includes a digital gallery, digital archives viewing room, and a digital newsstand but must be reserved ahead of time.
The other libraries do not have actual computer labs (but they still have computers you can use). There are also General UTS Labs located throughout campus.
Do you have multimedia computers which would allow me to manipulate video and audio files?
The Ball State University Libraries offer a multimedia computing environment in the Educational Resources Collections. Located south of the circulation desk, this space offers the use of high performance PCs, iMACs, and supporting software.
The multimedia workstations allow students, faculty, and staff to easily manipulate media such as video, audio, and 3D models, and they are perfect for intensive analyses of large data sets as those encountered in disciplines such as actuarial science, finance, marketing, and classes that require statistical data analyses. The PCs offer the latest in graphics processing technology, allowing users to engage in cutting-edge simulation activity and video game offerings.
To complement the multimedia computing workstations, additional devices include two analog and three digital capture devices to transfer content from miniDV and other media onto the PC and iMAC workstations. Studio-quality Sony headphones are also available.
Can I write my research paper in the Libraries?
Yes! The Libraries have all of the tools you need to research and write your papers. All of the computers in the Libraries have word processing software to assist you in writing papers. You can also visit a UTS computer lab .
Where can I find computers to accommodate my disability?
A full description of library resources for patrons with disabilities is available on the University Libraries' website. If you need assistance that is not listed on the library website, please call the Assistant Dean's Office at 765-285-1307.
The Adaptive Computer Technology Lab in Robert Bell 134G has a wealth of software and equipment for those with disabilities at Ball State University.
Do the Libraries have wireless internet?
Yes! Ball State University students, staff, and faculty with a wireless network card and a properly configured laptop can access the University's wireless network in Bracken Library, the Architecture Library and the Science-Health Science Library.
Where can I check out laptops and other digital equipment?
The Educational Resources Center lends laptops and other digital equipment for six hour loan periods. Their equipment cannot be reserved and is circulated on a "first come, first serve" basis.
Is there a list of the software that is on University Libraries’ computers?
The Software Locator allows you to search by software title and find a map of where we have the software loaded in the libraries.
You may also consult the list of software for the UTS labs.
If I’m a visitor to Ball State, may I still use the computers?
Visitors to Bracken Library may access CardCat, the online catalog, free of charge from dedicated workstations throughout the library. Visitors over the age of 14 may acquire full access to library computers, including databases, available software, and Internet connections, through the purchase of a Computer Access Card ($2.00).
The card may only be obtained from the appropriate vending machine near the Circulation/ Reserves counter in Bracken Library. Following purchase, present the card and a valid photo ID to the Main Circulation desk to receive a guest pass for use on computers on 1West in Bracken. The pass is valid for one calendar day to a single user.
Persons with the following affiliations are exempt from the $2.00 charge:
- BSU emeriti faculty with valid emeritus card.
- BSU alumni with valid BSU Alumni card.
- Faculty/students from any other University or college (including Ivy Tech) with current valid identification from their home institution.
- Indiana state employees with current valid state employee identification.
- Current military personnel with valid identification.
For assistance, please contact the Circulation/Reserves Desk in the lobby of Bracken Library (765-285-5143).
I forgot to bring a flash drive to save my computer files, do you have anything for me to use?
Ball State users can set up ilocker accounts which provide 2 gigabytes of storage space on a secure server. The Educational Resources Center also circulates flash drives to students, faculty and staff for six hour periods.