Linux at the Library?

Dean Siren asks: "Has anyone put a copy of Linux at a public or school library, free to check out, copy, install, and return? It's legal, and for many people would be a more convenient way to get ahold of Linux than purchasing or downloading (by putting it in a school library, it's almost as much forced exposure as Channel 1). I'm still talking with my local librarians about it, and wondering if it's an effective way to get 'converts'." What an interesting thought. I may have to check on doing this at my local library and those of you interested in this can check in your neck of the woods, as well. It would be interesting to see how such an idea is received.

Comments

Not just the CD & keep it up to date

["Zow"]

A few assorted thoughts as I wait for my compilation. . .

1. Just the disk alone probably wouldn't be much good for most members of the target audience. Donate a book that comes with a RedHat/Mandrake/whatever that includes instructions on how to install it, use it, etc. Anyone got any recommendations on what good books are for this?
2. Keep it up to date. You aren't doing anyone a favour by donating a copy of RedHat 5.1. Make an effort to see that the library is at least using the current major version number of whatever distro you provide.
3. I imagine that doing something like this could impose unforseen, unnecessary burdens on the librarians, like having people ask them for tech support. Anyone care to speculate on what these problems might be and what we can do to prevent them from becoming problems in the first place? (Like leaving your contact info or contact info for the local LUG for the librarians to give out to people with questions.)

-"Zow"