Here are some some tips and tricks for managing headphones for children's computers:
Headphones - We purchased some Labtec Elite 820s for our childrens systems, which are the same brand that has served our branch
library users well for the past few years - for about $6 a pair, they have proven to be a bargain!
Terry Caudle
Hopkins County - Madisonville Public Library (KY)
We seem to be a fortunate library in that some of the headphones that came with the Gates computers are still functioning.
The problem with them is not the sound but construction of them. Where the ear pieces connect to the head band is where they
break. We still have 2 functioning ones that came with the computers. As we get new computers to replace obsolete ones I
purchase in expensive ones through a library catalog-$10 to $12. I have not had any problems with them and it they break
can be replaced economically.
Mary Fran Nikolai
Garnavillo Public Library (IA)
We put barcodes on our headphones and check them in and out for kids to use on the computer. This did prevent them from being
stolen, however it did not keep them from being broken.
Cathy
Independence (WI) Public Library
We have four computers dedicated to children's programs-Win98 x 3, and one WinXP. All have a four port stereo listening post
with individually adjustable volume control for each port at each computer. Generally, we have two sets of 'phones at each
computer, but they can be traded around to accommodate additional listeners (older child or parent driving the computer and
a younger child kibitzing). Our latest set of headphones are made by Califone and are some obnoxious blueberry color (seems
to have cut down somewhat on pilferage). We also use some older school type 'phones.
David E. Johnson
Computer Tech Support
Nampa Public Library
Nampa, Idaho
We currently do have headphones on the PCs unless you bring your own in.
We have speakers on the PCs. If the sound level needs to be regulated, we disconnect the speaker that controls the sound and
regulate it by the PC which is then locked down.
Brandon Williams
Library Technology Coordinator
City of Mesa Library (AZ)
As for headphones, we sign them out at the front desk when they come to sign up for a computer and they are to bring them
back when they are done. We had people chewing on the cords (UGH) and destroying the wires.
Tonya Boltz
Keokuk (IA) Public Library
Headsets for the children's computers are a problem. Because they break them so fast, we invest in the most inexpensive ones
we can find. I laugh every time I go into the children's area and see the sign: Do not chew on the headphones wires - Parents,
please observe your children.
Gen
For children's headphones (and all others) we simply pick them up at the Dollar Store.
Liz Stewart
This has been a tricky one. We offer headphones for two reasons: enhanced experience using the computers, such as for Encarta
and MSB and, for accessibility reasons for hearing impaired. Our public access computers all have headphones, but not the
lush, heavy-duty type that originally came with our Gates computers. When those were all broken, we went with headphones
that were not as cheaply made as the airline style, but would be affordable and functional for library users of all ages.
Of course, the adjustable volume feature was very important as well. Surprisingly, these headphones last a few months but
it is still a big expense for the library to maintain. We are trying to keep up with headphone replacements as needed at
this point.
Cathay Crosby
Electronic Services Librarian
Cecil County Public Library
Elkton, Maryland
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