SAM asks each Internet user to enter his/her library card number at the start of a computer session. SAM keeps track of the length of each session, limiting usage to two hours a day per user. (Time extensions may be available based on computer availability.) Limited-Use IDs will be issued to out-of-district visitors who want to use the Internet. Three Visitor Computers have been designated.

SAM will allow our community better and more equitable access to the Library’s computer services. In addition, SAM will allow staff members to better-assist our patrons with information needs.

Remember: You will need to know your library barcode number and your PIN number to use the Internet computers.

Q . What is SAM?

A . SAM is a new computer software application that improves everyone’s access to public-use Internet computers at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library.

Q . Why did the Library purchase SAM?

A . SAM was purchased in response to community interest in fairer and more equitable computer access for all library users.

Q . What exactly does SAM do?

A . SAM allocates individual session time among library users who want to use library Internet computers.

Q . How does a person use a SAM computer?

A . One accesses the computer by entering a library barcode and PIN number into the logon screen. SAM authenticates that number by comparing it with the Library’s circulation database, and begins a time-limited session for the person on that computer. The first time you use a SAM computer, a SAM account is automatically established for you.

Q. What is my PIN?

A. Your Personal Identification Number (PIN) is a secret numeric password, usually four digits, that is used to authenticate you in the SAM system. We suggest you use the last four digits of your telephone number as your PIN, but you may use any number that you will remember.

Q . Does a customer have to be a member of the library to use a SAM computer?

A . No. The Library accommodates nonmembers with a “Visitor ID” number. Non-members are limited to sessions on 3 designated computers.

Q . If membership is not necessary, why does SAM use a library barcode number?

A . SAM needs some form of verifiable library user identification so it can allocate computers among people who want to use them. The library barcode number is convenient because it provides automatic verification.

Q . Does SAM keep records of computer use?

A . SAM keeps track of session times in order to improve everyone’s access to computers in the library. SAM keeps track of document statistics to charge for print services.

Q .How does SAM charge for printing?

A . Your SAM account is established automatically the first time you use SAM. If you print more than the free printing total of 10 pages a day, SAM will charge $.10 per page for the pages you print over the 10 free pages. You may put money into your SAM account at the Circulation Desk. The money will automatically be debited from your SAM account.

Q . Does SAM keep track of what an individual user does with a computer?

A . No. SAM does not keep track of where, or what on the Internet an individual user does on the Library computers.