San Joaquin Valley Library System
Technology Plan for July 1, 2004 - June 30, 2007
II. Current Technology Overview
SJVLS provides extensive technology-based services to some or all of its members. Support for technology is shared between member libraries and the system. Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in network services, such as Internet content filtering, antivirus protection, listserv and Exchange e-mail, and PC auditing and inventory management. Interest remains strong in cooperative implementation of new technologies.
Telecommunications Network: All member library locations, over 94 sites, are connected to the central network via leased lines, mostly frame relay to ATM. Most sites are T1 with a certified information rate (CIR) based on the number of PCs at the location. Bandwidth usage is monitored to identify locations at or near their CIR. One site, Alpaugh Branch Library, does not have T1 facilities because the local telecommunications provider, Verizon, has not built T1 facilities to the area. Internet access is shared over an ATM leased line, with bandwidth currently set at 10Mg. A CheckPoint firewall currently is managed by the system with support from Dynix, Inc.
Internet content filtering is provided through a system-wide subscription to the IPrism service with two IPrism appliances operated by System staff. Installation of building data cabling is coordinated through the System office.
Computer Network: The System runs a Windows2000 network with all computers joined to the domain and all staff members have user accounts. Files servers support users for system-wide file sharing and sharing within the library jurisdiction.
Applications support: The System provide a wide array of technology services to its members.
Web site hosting: The System operated its own web server, which hosts the System site, www.sjvls.org, the web site of the Heartland Regional Library Network, and web sites for 6 of the 9 member libraries. System staff assists with domain registration and administration as well as web site design and maintenance.
E-mail: A Microsoft Exchange server provides Internet e-mail services to all member libraries. SJVLS also runs LISTSERV Lite to enhance communication between technical support personnel and to support specific projects such as the Dynix to Horizon software migration.
Library Automation: A shared library automation system, Horizon (after November 2003), support library functions such as cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, and serials at all locations. The public interface is a web-based catalog with enhanced content such as book covers images and reviews included. Through the shared Horizon system library users are able to easily request materials from any public library in the 6 county area. The system also coordinates database purchases, such as the system-wide subscription to InfoTrac’s General Reference Center Gold, and provides support for access by home users through operation of a Remote Patron Authentication server. Home users are also supported through the Telecirc automated telephone notification system which delivers notices and allows self-renewal of items. The URSA system to extend resource sharing activities beyond SJVLS is licensed, but not currently implemented.PC support: Most members purchase PCs and software through the system in order to take advantage of volume discounts and to ensure that system standards are met. The TrackIt! software is in use throughout the system to provide PC software and hardware auditing for software license compliance, network planning, and technology inventory and replacement planning information. The help desk features of TrackIt! are also in implementation. Antivirus protection for all PCs is purchased and coordinated centrally to ensure that PCs on the network are protected.
Public PC management: Management of public use computers is supported through recommended configurations, imaging of new PCs, consultation with local technical support personal, and directly provided technical support. Print management services are provided through a system-wide purchase of Envisionware’s LPT:One software, which is in use at most locations. CybraryN software to control reservation and timed access has been purchased with installation progressing slowly.