Hi, I'm new to this site. I'm a librarian at a k-8 school. I own an iphone but not an ipad. there are only 2 public computers in my library for use with the OPAC (online catalog) and I'm thinking that ipads might be an inexpensive alternative to desktops (which there is no room for) or even laptops. Any thoughts?

I depends on how the catalog is accessed. If it is a standard web page interface, the iPad might work with it. If it is a program that you have to load on the computers then chances are it will not work.

Check with your OPAC software supplier and ask if the iPad can be used.

Either way, ask around and see if you can get an iPad to test before you buy.

If it works, it could be a very nice solution, but it's also a very portable and therefor easily stolen solution. Keep that in mind.