We currently prohibit the use of mobile phones, other than for silent
texting, in most of the library building, including the computer rooms
and study areas. However, we are now being overtaken by technology and
are struggling to reconcile the availability of Voice Over IP with our
ban.
In addition to a number of networked computers, our users are able to
bring in and use their own laptops in the open study areas. We now find
that some of our users are using computer equipment for VoIP, which
under current rules is not specifically prohibited. We are currently
allowing the use of VoIP but this is leading to confusion among staff
and students regarding what should and should not be allowed. There is
also some resentment from other users who have been fined as a result of
using mobile phones in the same areas of the building.
At present, we are undecided how best to reconcile the availability of
VoIP with our phone policy. Do we ban VoIP, limit its use to certain
areas or relax the mobile phone ban? Has anyone else experienced this
dilemma, and how have you resolved it?
Kate Coulling
University of Central Lancashire
email: [log in to unmask]
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