Using Computers in the Library

The Library has a small computer lab (8 Windows, 4 Mac) available anytime the Library is open. Hardware and software configurations are listed at the bottom of this page.

Four of our Windows PCs allow guests to use them for a maximum of 3 hours per day. Guests may inquire about computer access at the Information Desk.

The entire library has excellent wireless coverage. A few spots on the second floor (book stacks) and lower level have weaker signals, but users generally find a solid connection anywhere in the building. Help with Drake Wireless setup.

Laptop Kiosk

A self-service laptop kiosk is available on the main floor of the library, near the Information Desk. Drake students, faculty, and staff can use the kiosk to borrow a MacBook laptop for free to use for up to four hours (or until the battery needs to be recharged).

Cowles Library does not provide technical support for the kiosk laptops. Information about the MacBooks and how to use the kiosk is available in the ITS Knowledge Base.

Printing

The library’s printers use Drake’s managed print system.

Printer use is very heavy during the first and last few weeks of each semester, and there is often a printing rush immediately before classes on weekdays. The library’s microform readers can print to the campus print system. More about copying, printing, and scanning at the Library.

Personal Computer Use

Information and support for using personal computers on campus and in the library can be found on the Information Technology Services web site.

Particular topics of interest include:

Standard Software on Library Computers

Windows ComputersMac Computers
  • Adobe Reader
  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Microsoft Edge
  • LockDown Browser
  • MS Office
    • Word
    • Excel
    • PowerPoint
    • Publisher
    • OneNote
    • Outlook
    • Access
  • IBM SPSS 25
  • LabStats
  • MatLab
  • R
  • SAS
  • Zoom
  • Adobe Reader
  • Fetch
  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Safari
  • iMovie
  • iTunes
  • Pages
  • Numbers
  • Keynote
  • MatLab
  • Microsoft Office 2016
    • Word
    • Excel
    • PowerPoint
    • OneNote
    • Outlook