Library - LARC
Services
Career Services
Library Services and Collections
Resources
Circulation Policies
Off-campus Access
Student Laptops
A limited number of laptops are available for checkout during the semester at each campus/location of Minnesota West. This program is intended for students who need off-campus access to a computer for the purposes of Minnesota West-related coursework and do not have a device of their own or believe their device is not adequate for their needs.
- Laptops are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Available computers are basic HP ProBooks with Internet accessibility, Microsoft Office, and a built-in webcam and microphone. We also have a limited number of Chromebooks for checkout if a laptop is unavailable.
- There is no fee for checking out a student laptop UNLESS the laptop is damaged or is not returned, in which case you will be charged the cost of replacement or repair of the computer.
- At checkout, you will be required to complete the Student Laptop Loan Agreement.
- Laptops are wiped and reformatted upon return. Be sure to remove all of your data prior to returning the computer. We will not be able to recover your data once the device is wiped.
- Most laptops may be checked out for up to one semester at a time. We also have a limited supply of laptops available for short-term (48-hour) checkout.
Where to check out a laptop
If interested in securing a laptop for checkout, please contact your Campus Resource Specialist.
Laptops will be picked up and returned at your home campus or center.
Online Students can contact the Resource Specialist at the campus closest to you.
LARC Support
Having trouble logging into student email, e-Services, D2L Brightspace, or your Tutor.com account?
- Please contact our Communication Center at 800-658-2330, during regular business hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- You can Ask a Question or review our Student Services Knowledge Base articles for help.
Academic Assistance
Take advantage of our tutoring services!
Contact our library staff for help with library research!
Contact our team for Test Proctoring Information
Having trouble with D2L Brightspace?
- Check your computer by doing a system check (link to system check is on the D2L Brightspace login page).
- After logging in, review the Frequently Asked Questions on the D2L Brightspace home page.
- If you are still unable to resolve the technical issue, contact the Communication Center at 800-658-2330.
- Please have this information ready when you call:
- Computer Operating System, e.g., Windows 10; Chrome, Firefox, Edge.
- Browser version, e.g. Internet Explorer 10.0.
- Internet connection, e.g. Wi-Fi, cable.
- Time of problem.
- Any error message.
- Content Issues.
- If you are having difficulties with content in your online course, contact your instructor.
Library Services & Facilities
Computer labs located in each Library and Academic Resource Center are available for use during open hours. Students using computers for assignments, research, and testing have priority for computer use. All users must adhere to Minnesota West's Internet Use policies.
Equipment is available in the libraries for viewing and listening. Calculators for student use are available at some of the libraries.
An electronic security system is in operation at the exit gate of the library. The system allows free movement through the exit gate unless an item which has not been checked out activates the alarm. If this occurs, please go to the circulation desk.
Librarians are available to teach students how to make effective use of library resources to complete class assignments and to conduct research in general. Instructors should contact their campus librarian for class instruction.
All libraries have a self-service photocopier available for .10 per page.
Most of the periodical and reference databases are subscription databases and require you to be authenticated as a valid Minnesota West user. On campus, you are automatically authenticated by the college IP address of your computer and are able to access the database. Off campus you will be required to logon through the proxy server using your StarID and StarID password.
Study rooms are available for individual or small group project work at some of the libraries. Rooms may be reserved by contacting the campus library.
Library Staff
Michael Van Keulen
Student Success Coordinator
507-223-1329 | michael.vankeulen@mnwest.edu
Kip Thorson
LARC/Library Director
Collegewide and Distance Library Services
507-372-3460 | kip.thorson@mnwest.edu