Transcript Library Technology Interview

Library Technology
Interview
Public Library “G”
A Regional Perspective
October 4, 2008
Lynne Bolick Reed, LIS 631
Organizational Overview
 Regional public library system: 2 counties
 Legal service population = 267,489
 74 FTEs
 1 Main Library + 12 branches
 Operating budget = $4,539,653
 Technology budget = approximately
$200,481
System Data FY 2006/2007
 Collection holdings
 Print collection = 544,071
 Nonprint collection = 101,863
 Total circulation = 1,305,313
 68% = adult materials
 32% = youth materials
More System Data FY 2006/2007
 Public computer use = 138,803
 User visits to buildings = 779,789
 Virtual visitors through web = 206,338
 Registered users = 37% of total population
 Adults = 73,523
 Youth = 24,937
Mission & Goals
 Mission emphasizes service to all ages
 Materials reflect local community interests
 Resources, services & programs support
four goals:
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Education
Information
Leisure
Culture
Automation Services Manager:
John Doe
 BA in History from NCSU
 Working experience:
 Computer lab at NCSU
 Collection development
 Reference desk
 Current position:
 Manages 1 technician
 Separate department from county IT
 Networking, hardware, software, web, training
Current Technology Infrastructure
 Networking = Cisco router/switch with fiber and
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cat 6 cable
Computing = 7 servers + 200 computers & thin
clients for staff and public
Databases = subscriptions (typical library
applications)
Web Services = library website
Social Networking = working on creating
MySpace & FaceBook presence
Library 2.0 Technology = Wowbrary, catalog
enhancement tool
Current Technology Management
 Decision-making = team approach:
 Regional & county directors
 Automation Services Manager
 Considerations = mission, goals & budget
 No formal technology plan
 Patron input invited through formal &
informal channels
Budget
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Telecom, frame relay, DSL = $46,051
ILS = $84,461
Databases + e-resources = $19,885
Syndetics OPAC enhancement = $6,197
Web hosting = $600
Server maintenance = $6,000
ILS reports module = $1,875
SAM PC reservation & print management = $1,300
Deep Freeze security software = $1,300
Anti-virus = $2,500
Early Literacy Station (youth software) = $1,200
Technology Trends
in Public Libraries
 John Doe says important trends are:
 Wireless connectivity (currently don’t have
due to budget considerations)
 Downloadable media will replace SOME (not
all) print items
 Reservation & print management for public
computers
 Continued expansion of Library 2.0
technologies
Conclusion
 Connection to local government IT
department
 Many pros & cons
 Less control & slower response vs. more control &
budget weaknesses
 Conflicting priorities
 Library needs not fully comprehended by
disconnected IT staff
Summary
 Make the most of local resources & situation
 Explore technology options carefully with
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knowledge of local audience needs
Maintain a current technology plan
Use team to address technology issues
Understand user expectations & technology
trends
Communicate with frontline staff for their
perspectives
Train staff well