Getting back on subject with software I believe the best and what most use at college is UltraMon.
You can do the different Background Images, Resolutions, and task bars with UltraMon.
Full list of features are at:
http://www.realtimesoft.com/ultramon/overview/
I have my UltraMon setup with 4 different profiles to fit my 19" wide screen and 19" LCD.
1. Single 19" Wide screen Monitor (For regular internet surfing)
2. Single 19" Square Monitor (almost never used)
3. Dual Display (Used for programming, video editing, office work)
4. Stretch (cool for movies and some games)