To USB or Not to USB

Headnote

tech tips for every librarian

We focus so heavily on the bigger issues surrounding technology in libraries that we sometimes overlook the importance of the little things that make our patrons' lives easier. To wit-every library that offers public computer access sooner or later faces the question: "Where can people keep their stuff?" From preteens working on school PowerPoint projects to job seekers modifying resumes, everyone just needs their own space.

Any library worker who has had to deal with floppy disks knows that they are a less-than-ideal storage solution. Enter USB (flash, jump, thumb) drives, whose low price and convenience make them a great replacement for older technology.

Although just allowing the use of USB drives seems so simple, libraries serving USB-wielding patrons must resolve a host of issues, ranging from accessibility to security. While it is possible to disable USB ports and disallow the use of these devices, this ill-serves patrons and is an overreaction to security concerns.

Here are some tips about how USB drives can be used safely on public PCs.

Accessibility

Many older PCs have their USB ports (if they have the ports at all) on the back of the machine, which causes problems for patrons. If your ports are inaccessible or hard to reach, you can think about adding an extender cable to bring a port around to the top of the desk. If all of your USB ports are already in use by other devices, you can think about adding small USB hubs for patron use. (You can purchase USB extender cables for less than $8 apiece; hubs sell for less than $15 apiece.)

If your machines lack USB ports, they probably also lack USB support. You may need to upgrade or replace them before you can support USB usage. But it's probably easier to just consider allowing USB drive usage in the future as you replace older machines.

Security

There are several specific security concerns you need to address.

1. Bypass booting from drives other than the hard disk in each public machine's basic input/output system (BIOS) settings. (You should already have done this if you have been allowing patrons to use floppy disks.) You don't want patrons to be able to plug in and boot...