Massachusetts Public Library Trustees Handbook
| Chapter 11. Technology | ||
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Table of Contents
Automation in the Library
Your first year as a trustee will be a full one as you learn what it takes to provide library service to your community. Implementing projects that use computers takes more time than most of us realize and/or allocate. Take the time to learn how to use computers and what they can do for your library.
No era has posed a greater challenge to trustees in guiding a library's direction than does the present era of new technological developments. Library trustees need to be in the forefront, helping shape the change, bringing it about, informing the public and local officials, and supporting the concept of equal access to all. Planning is crucial to the successful integration of technology into the library. Please refer to Chapter 5 of this Handbook for a fuller discussion of technology planning.
What are some of the critical issues to consider when dealing with automation?
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Planning is the key to effective use of computer technology.
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The amount of time it takes to successfully implement computer technology will almost always be longer than expected.
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Computer technology costs money. The current expected lifecycle of a computer is approximately three years. Investment in technology must be viewed, therefore, as an ongoing and essential component of the operating budget of the library.
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Experience counts. Don't take on a major automation project without some experience in simpler projects.
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It takes trained library staff to make computers work. Ongoing training and development is essential for the library's technology team, for library management, and for the other members of the staff. An ongoing commitment to training should be reflected in the operating budget of the library.
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Computer hardware and software is constantly evolving: what is cutting edge technology today is obsolete next month. Accept this principle, difficult though it may be, and be prepared to review and budget for annual updates.
Public libraries that are members of an automated resource sharing network (see Chapter 13 of this Handbook for a listing of the networks) handle automation differently than those which are not members. Most public libraries in Massachusetts belong to one of eight networks which automate the functions of cataloging, circulation, interlibrary loan, statistical reporting, and in some cases, even acquisitions. Other libraries which are not members of a network have what is called a stand-alone system. This means that none of its electronic records are connected to outside databases. Generally, they cannot be accessed by other computers.
In the past, many computer terminals served only one dedicated purpose: to access the automated catalog. However, most public access computer stations now serve a multiple of purposes, including catalog, Internet, email, CD-ROM, and word processing access. These stations are usually connected to printers and sometimes to scanners for patrons' use.
Trustee Tip
Understanding WHAT automated systems your library has and WHY your library has them will enhance your term as a trustee and be of great benefit to your library.
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| A Word About Volunteers |  |
Automated Catalogs |