I'm Sorry Dave, I'm afraid I Can't do That...
Starting Jan. 29, Juniata residence halls will have their brand new computerized lock systems activated for the first time in the college's history. The installation and implementation of the lock system has stirred up a buzz on campus about the true implications of the system on the culture of Juniata and what new type of security will come with it. Tim Launtz, Director of Residential Life at Juniata, sits down with me to unlock the true meaning behind Juniata's new security system (Less people will get the HAL reference).
Question
Why is Juniata installing the lock system?
Answer
The lock system is an upgrade to insure the safety and welfare of Juniata students. As it relates to residents halls, the time has come; this puts Juniata on the same plane as other universities and colleges across the nation. We don't want students to get a false sense of security, though. No lock system is foolproof.
Q
Will the system remain just for residence halls?
A
I believe in the future you also will see a locking system for the academic buildings, but, for now, it will be just be for the residence halls.
Q
How exactly does the system work?
A
The system works with your Juniata Gold card. You have to swipe the card to unlock the door and get into the building. We selected the use of the ID card after looking at FOB systems and proxy cards. The advantage of the swipe cards is, if you lose your card, you can go get card number two, and the system deletes card number one. You don't have to wait for the system to update.
Q
How will the system be implemented?
A
We're using a phase-in process, and starting with one residence hall, Cloister. We feel that, because the system is new to us and to the students, it wouldn't be in anyone's interest to implement it all the way. We know there will be some bumps along the road. Anything that makes it less of an inconvenience for students to get used to, we're doing it. For example, we're putting Cloister online first, because it is the smallest dorm. It will inconvenience the least amount of people as we start using the system. Also, we won't ever bring a building online on a Friday. It would be on a Tuesday, Wednesday or maybe a Thursday, so that if there are any problems, it can be fixed without waiting until the end of the weekend.
Q
How do you respond to those who claim the lock system will change the culture of Juniata?
A
Since we started working on this last spring, and got it approved in the summer, we've been focused on preserving the sense of community at Junaita. That was the biggest driving factor behind deciding on a specific locking system. Students will have access to all residence halls, not just the ones they live in. I believe this will maintain the community aspect of Juniata. Most schools only allow keys to your specific dorm. For now, however, off-campus owned facilities such as Mission or Hess will remain key-locked.
- Adam Stanley '08, student reporter