Discusses rationale for a public library board's decision to construct a room to house patron computers, the chronology for construction, physical characteristics of the room, computer hardware, coin-op devices, computer software, user guidelines, patron scheduling, fee structure, staffing, patron orientation, the library's role vis-a-vis patron computers, mistakes made, future plans. Appendices include annotated lists of patron software, guidelines, orientation outline, responsibility statement, introductory brochure.