Information for New Faculty
Welcome to Luther! We're looking forward to having the opportunity to work with you and support your teaching. We recognize that library resources and technology are important tools for your work and teaching and we've compiled a few frequently asked questions regarding our services for you. Below you will also find a link to an interactive form where you can let us know what preferences you have so we can begin to prepare for your arrival. If at any time you have questions about our support services, please contact Diane Gossman, Director of User Services (gossmand@luther.edu).
What computer can I expect to receive?
Luther provides standard office computers for all faculty that are replaced on a three-to-four year cycle (we are currently evaluating this replacement cycle). Faculty generally have the opportunity to select either a desktop or laptop, and whether they prefer a Dell/Microsoft Windows-based machine or an Apple/Mac OS X-based machine.
Luther is currently planning to refresh faculty computers in Summer 2008. Specifications for those computers are not yet available.
What software can I expect to have?
All Luther computers come with a standard suite of software including Microsoft Office, OpenOffice, Firefox, Thunderbird, Adobe Reader, Citrix, Media Players (Quicktime, Real Player, Windows Media Player). Concurrent licensing is available for Adobe and Macromedia creative suites as well as SPSS.
Software available on faculty PCs (PDF) | Software available on faculty Macs (PDF)
How do I request special hardware or software for my office?
Special requests should first be discussed with the Director of User Services Diane Gossman (gossmand@luther.edu). Generally Library and Information Services (LIS) provides a standard level of hardware for all faculty. LIS also serves as the purchasing agent for all information technology on campus. Any additions to the standard equipment for research or academic use are usually paid for with department funds and purchased through LIS.
How do I request special hardware or software for a lab?
Special requests should first be discussed with your library liaison or Director of User Services Diane Gossman (gossmand@luther.edu) who coordinates support for academic technology labs. A request form is also available on the web at: http://library.luther.edu/pages/softwarepol.htm
Software available on our PC labs (PDF) | Software available on our Mac labs (PDF)
Some LIS-managed funds are available for purchase and/or license of software resources for curricular use. These funds are managed as part of the library's collection funds and are overseen by LIS staff.
What training and instruction is available to me?
LIS offers demonstrations, training sessions, and workshops to Luther faculty, staff and students on topics such as KATIE, Office 2007, Data Backups, and Google Applications. For more information, go to http://lis.luther.edu/learn. LIS also offers 1-on-1 training and has additional information available online at http://helpdesk.luther.edu/go/list
How do I request library materials or course instruction to support my courses?
Our librarian liaisons support collection development and instruction in each academic department. They should be in contact with you prior to your arrival on campus to introduce themselves. You can also use our interactive form to request that your library liaison contact you now to discuss any collection or instruction needs that you have.
Please complete our interactive form so we can begin preparing for your arrival


