Small Libraries Roundtable February 2006

Topic: Technology
Notes from the February Meeting

• Related Resources:
  • Sample Technology Budget for a Small Library (Npower): "Description: This Excel spreadsheet from NPower can serve as a template for a technology budget for a small library. The spreadsheet uses eight staff as an example, but is appropriate for a library with approximately 1-20 staff members."
  • Network Notebook (Npower): "Description: Do you know where to find the administrative passwords for your computers? Can you quickly locate the phone number for your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or your emergency technical support resource? Network Notebooks have been used by many nonprofits to keep track of their computers' vital stats and check-up history. Download this Microsoft Word template to start building your own! Courtesy of the nonprofit technology experts at NPower."
  • Technology Planning Process (Technology for Results, Diane Mayo, ALA, 2005): "Description: This chapter from "Technology for Results: Developing Service-Based Plans" explains how to create a process for developing a library technology plan that reflects a library's patron and community service mission."
  • TechAtlas Technology Planning Tool: "Description: Check out this great online tool that helps libraries (and other non-profits) assess their current hardware, staff skills and technology needs"
  • Troubleshooting Checklist

NOTES FROM THE SESSION:

Connectivity problems:
· Confirm with your provider that you have their most current hardware (especially router, make sure software that goes with router is also up-to-date)
· Millennium uses the Internet in a more demanding / continuous way than a standard web page
· MHLS Tech Dept provides an on-site consultation at no charge

TechSoup.org for discounted software.

Seeking outside help:
· Can be: o Volunteers o Local tech support o MHLS Tech Dept support
· Scheduling ideas: o Once a month maintenance o 20 hours / year contract
· Technology solutions: o SAM - manages print jobs and time slots o Deep Freeze Pro ("reboot-to-restore technology")

Empower staff with simple troubleshooting procedures and written directions.

Budgeting for technology:
· Budget line for annual computer purchases
· Budget line for keeping software up-to-date
· Budget line for tech support consultant
· Idea of funding a new computer through the Friends or through program income
· Upgrade your network hardware and bandwidth
· Upgrade staff computers - Millennium uses more

Review Internet policy annually.

Keeping staff current with technology:
· Notebook at circ desk of Millennium communications
· Millennium listserv
· Staff meetings: o Include database training from the Central Library o Include a Millennium refresher from Laurie

New Technology:
· Thin Clients - Midge shared an article from a recent issue of Library Journal, (available through HomeACCESS) "It Pays to be Thin," by Diane Romm, 2.1.2006

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