Massachusetts Public Library Trustees Handbook

Internet
	Chapter 11. Technology

Internet

The Internet is a worldwide network of computer networks that allows its user to have access to vast amounts of information and to communicate electronically. There are many important uses of the Internet:

Electronic mail (email) which allows librarians to send information to each other quickly and inexpensively.
Automated email distribution lists which allow group discussions via email on topics of interest. Email distribution lists are sponsored by many agents, including the MBLC and the regional library systems.
World Wide Web (www) consists of documents formatted in HTML computer language so that the text and graphics can be read by browsers using the Internet. Most federal, state, and local government agencies have web sites, as do most academic institutions, non-profit, and for-profit corporations. Millions of individuals also maintain their own unique home pages. The information contained on these web sites may or may not be of value to library patrons.

Much valuable information can be found almost instantly over the world wide web. The librarian's role is to help patrons find authoritative information from reputable sources. Librarians and trustees can start with the MLIN web site, hosted by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, at http://www.mlin.lib.ma.us. Each regional library system also maintains its own web site with links to other sites of interest to libraries.

The more a trustee learns about computers and the latest library technology, the more s/he realizes how much more there is to learn. While every trustee should understand the basic concepts behind computer technology, it is important to work with your library director when planning for technology. Support for your director and your technology team is available from your regional library system and from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.


Automated Electronic Reference		Chapter 12. Construction and Renovation