Raspberry Pi: OPACs at Messenger Public Library

Raspberry Pi

An inexpensive computing solution for MPL’s OPAC

What’s a Raspberry Pi?

Why Pi?

• A general purpose desktop ranges in price from $300-$600.

• OPACs are only needed to browse the library’s catalog – a lot of the features on a GP desktop are unnecessary.

• Raspberry Pis (RPs) have a base cost of approximately $39, and can be outfitted with cables and case for under $100.

Cost Breakdown – Two Choices

Item Cost

Raspberry Pi B+ $39.95

Case $8.95

8GB SD card (x2) $29.98

HDMI cable $4.95

VGA to HDMI adapter

$18.95

WiFi Dongle $8.50

Power Supply $7.95

TOTAL $119.23

Item Cost

CanaKit – includes Raspberry Pi B+, Case, Power Supply, WiFi adapter, HDMI cable, and 8GB SD card

$59.99

8GB SD card $14.99

VGA to HDMI adapter

$18.95

TOTAL $93.93

ALREADY HAVESD Card Reader Monitor (VGA) Keyboard Mouse

When smaller projectors get upgraded, we will have 2 VGA/HDMI adapters

Location

We could ask Dominic to build us a shelf to secure the RP and cords.

ADA accessible OPAC –currently only really have in YSD.

Lake Whitney Public Library

Shaddow in the Library (AU)

White Plains Public Library

Locking them Down?

• RPs have a built-in kiosk mode that can be turned on. They can be set up to go right into a full-screen browser.

• Create a user login so that patrons can’t access the root login.

• Physically secure RP using whatever apparatus we use to house the user peripherals - make an “outer case” to secure board and cords, while still making it accessible for staff to do troubleshooting.

But Linux! Code! Ahh!

• The Raspberry Pi Foundation, who makes RP, is all about Education.

• The original intention was to make a small, affordable computer so kids could learn how to code.

• This means there are tons of articles, blog posts, and forums on how to set up and troubleshoot your Pi.

What About Staff Time?

• We should be able to get a RP set up and configured in about 4-8 hours.

• This translates to $69.44-$138.88 worth of staff time (VS Librarian).

• This is still cheaper than having our IT perform the set-up.

IT Support?

• Ed is familiar with RP (he has two of them himself) so would be able to help troubleshoot if needed.

• RPs is run on Linux, so anyone with an understanding of Linux should be able to do tech support.

What Else Could We Do?

• Set up a retro gaming station for kids/teens/adults.

• Digital Signage

• Include a RP in a mini maker-space.

• Programs (run by http://workshop88.com/ -they did one for St. Charles)

Summary

• Adding additional endcap OPAC stations would be more financially reasonable with RPs, at roughly $100 per computer.

• Would be “just enough” computer to serve the necessary purpose.

• Plenty of “how to” out there to help us along in getting set-up.

• Potentially for expanding to replace the plasma screen computer.