1. Library Technology Interview
Public Library “G”
A Regional Perspective
October 4, 2008
Lynne Bolick Reed, LIS 631

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. Mission & Goals Mission emphasizes service to all ages
Materials reflect local community interests
Resources, services & programs support four goals:
Education
Information
Leisure
Culture

6. 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

7. Current Technology Infrastructure
Networking = Cisco router/switch with fiber and cat 6 cable
Computing = 7 servers 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

8. 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

9. Budget 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. Summary Make the most of local resources & situation
Explore technology options carefully with 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