Wait, You Mean I Can Borrow a Camera (and Fix My Tech Issues)?

Ever stared helplessly at your laptop as it crashes right before your 11:59 p.m. deadline? Or you suddenly can’t connect to the network just as you join an important Zoom? Luckily, you’re not alone, because the OIT Service Desk at The Link is here to save the day.

Getting IT Help (a.k.a. your digital lifeline)

The Office of Information Technology (OIT) Service Desk is the crew behind The Link. Their whole job is to make your Duke experience smoother. From resetting your NetID password to figuring out why your ethics lecture on Zoom sounds like it’s being broadcast from a walkie-talkie, they have you covered. You can reach them via phone, live chat, or simply walking up to The Link during their hours. They’re open every weekday (Mon. – Thurs. 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday), so there’s almost always someone to rescue you from a near disaster.

Where the magic happens

You’ll find The Link tucked away on the lower level of Perkins Library. If you have yet to visit, it is packed with flexible classrooms and group study spaces, all designed to encourage project-based learning and collaborative work. It's open whenever Perkins is open, and during regular business hours the OIT Service Desk is right there to support your tech needs.

Free equipment? Yes, really.

One of the most underrated perks at The Link is the free equipment rental service. Need a projector for a club event, a camera because you want to get into photography, or just an adapter you forgot at home? You can reserve most items online, totally free of charge – they even have color-blind correction glasses! Laptops are available too, but on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

Rental windows range from 4 hours to 2 weeks, and can be done either online by visiting the Registration Portal, or by walking up to the desk. To look at the tech available for students to rent and instructions on how to do so, check out the OIT Service Desk Website.

Bonus stop: The DukeCard Office

While you’re already exploring the lower level of Perkins, note that the recently relocated DukeCard Office is now nearby. If you’ve ever misplaced your Duke ID, this is where you’ll get a new one, or sort through any other related issues.