this post was submitted on 15 Oct 2023
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Is there a Linux based OS for public computers, such as at a library or a PC cafe? (lemmy.blahaj.zone)
submitted 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) by queue@lemmy.blahaj.zone to c/linux@lemmy.ml
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Title. Mainly asking for the library side, but PC cafe is also interesting to ask about.

Mainly since Windows 11 is 64-bit only, and it seems Windows 12 is going to subscription based on top of that, neither of which public libraries can afford tossing out computers and paying more in subscription fees than they make with overdue books.

My local library is only open for 2 days a week, due to a lack of funds for hiring more staff in the area. They use older Dell all in ones, and that just makes me think if they don't have the money for being open 5 days a week, they don't have the money to buy 4 new computers for the space.

Not even getting into the bigger libraries part of that system or the ones nearby. Some have 8 computers in groups, with 4 stations of groups.

So I was just wondering, if anyone has started or is aware of a Library/Public Computer focused linux-based OS? Perhaps one that allows immutable systems, and the library card system backed most use to enable end user access. Perhaps that's a config file tucked away somewhere.

And I guess the PC cafe OS is interesting, simply due to the fact that Linux gaming has been making huge strides, and PC cafes are still popular in Japan, Korea, and China.

EDIT: I am not in control or assistance to the library, just looking if there's a potential solution to libraries like mine. If I could give links to a library computer manager, or if I could give upstream bug reports to people making such software.

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[–] flashgnash@lemm.ee -2 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I don't imagine there'd be a specific distro but you could absolutely lock a Linux machine down to be usable as a kiosk

Real question would be why though, a computer is a computer to the majority of people and you can always just bring your own laptop if you want Linux for yourself

[–] BirdyBoogleBop@lemmy.dbzer0.com 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

For many people the library computer is the only computer they have access to.

Windows lincenses also cost money so if they can get an OS working for free that is probably going to be a massive plus.

[–] flashgnash@lemm.ee 1 points 1 year ago

I don't think Linux would be cheaper in the long run in that scenario, most young people could fix common problems with a windows machine whereas Linux needs someone with Linux experience

I also think people without access to their own computer are probably not worried about the operating system it's running as long as they have a functional system, unless they are trying to learn how Linux works but they wouldn't be able to do that with a locked down public computer anyway