Computer and Library Resources

Having a good grasp of rapidly evolving technology will be a key part of your process of responding critically to the world and your educational evolution while you are here at City and afterward. For this reason, I require you all to set up a blog like this one and follow the class's Twitter feed. Note that I WILL NOT accept any handwritten papers (unless it's work done during class time). There are no excuses and no exceptions to this rule: this is college -- not high school. If you do not have a computer at home, see the list of CCNY computer labs on the "CCNY Resources" page. Also note that all branches of the New York Public Library have computers available for public (that means you) use. Check their website for details.


Blogger Set up and help

Available here.

Software and documents

Some of you may be getting new computers (or more access to the family computer. One resource you should be aware of is Open Office, which is a free download for Mac, Windows, and Linux computer operating systems. It is what's called open source and is largely compatible with Microsoft's Office software, which is the standard. A better alternative for Mac OS is Neo Office. Libre Office is worth checking out as well and is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. As of this writing (8/2011), it's being developed more consistently than Open Office. You should also be aware of Google Docs if you already aren't. The difference is that Google docs stores all of your info on their servers (and requires internet connection) and Open Office does not: everything is stored on your own computer.

You can also buy copies of Microsoft Office and Windows 7 at significant discount through the CUNY e-mall, though you have to have your CCNY ID to do so.

Public Libraries

The New York Public Library has branches in The Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.
The Brooklyn Public Library covers Brooklyn only.
The Queens Library system covers Queens only.

A current NYPL library card is a course requirement. You'll need it before we do class library visits and for some of the research you'll be doing. If you have a card for the Brooklyn or Queens system, ask at a branch how to link this to the NY Public (Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island) system, which is actually separate. All branches provide computer access for free (you sometimes have to sign up for use). Note that some of the central libraries in each borough have extended hours. For example the Mid-Manhattan Library is open 7 days and until 11 pm weeknights; the Bronx Library Center is open 9-9 every day. There is no excuse for not getting your work done on time. No matter what your work schedule is or family responsibilities you have, you should be able to find a place to do your work at a convenient time.

CUNY Libraries

As a student in the City University system, you have access to the library at any CUNY campus! Therefore, you can go to a campus near your home or where you work and can borrow books from almost anywhere in the system once you have your permanent CCNY ID card! Note, however, that some libraries offer computer access only to students enrolled at that college. CUNY has a list of all campus libraries here.