Hekman Library provides public computers for quick look-up of library items in the collection, as well as guest access to the library's electronic resources, such as e-books and databases. These select stations require no login and are available to all library users. Additional computers in the library are only for Calvin student, faculty, and staff use, requiring Calvin login.
The staff of the Hekman Library welcomes guests who are engaged in research consistent with the purpose of an academic library. The library is a learning, discovery, and study space for students and researchers in the greater Grand Rapids community. If you are an area student, researcher, or scholar and anticipate that you will be using the library frequently, please introduce yourself to the Head of Access Services, Carla Hotz and contact the Dean of the Library, David Malone.
Please note that the library cannot support guests who monopolize public computers for recreational or non-academic purposes. We request that users who fall into this category voluntarily take their need for computer access elsewhere.
*Update for 2023 - Public computer stations are located on Floors 4 and 5, see library staff for directions*
Users of any computer in the library are subject to the moral and ethical guidelines described in Calvin University's "Responsible Use of Technology" document. Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in permanent loss of computer privileges, suspension, or legal prosecution.
Some important elements of the "Responsible Use" document are highlighted here.
New technologies often increase our ability to communicate as well as miscommunicate. That communication should be guided by respect for others and a sense of personal integrity. Ephesians 4:29 is applicable here: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Communication that degrades or harasses individuals or groups is unacceptable: Viewing pornographic or hate group material or using email for hurtful communication will be viewed as violations of this principle.
Users should not waste technological resources. This includes wasteful use of any computing resource, including processors, file space, servers, printers, or network usage for trivial and/or non-educational purposes. Using a computer for non-educational purposes and printing an inordinate amount of material is in violation of this principle. Users are to keep stewardship of resources in mind, particularly when printing documents (e.g., print double-sided, make as few copies as is necessary).