San Joaquin Valley Library System
Technology Plan for July 1, 2004 - June 30, 2007
III. Technology-based Goals and Objectives
The full Goals and Objectives of the San Joaquin Valley Library System through 2006 are set forth in the Long Range Strategic Plan, 2003-2006, Appendix A. Included in the Technology Plan goals below are key technology-related initiatives includes in that plan or added after the plan was adopted.
Strategic Technology Goal #1: Provide a reliable data network to support library operations
With the vast majority of library services now dependent on network connectivity to shared servers and the Internet, a robust network is essential to library operations.
Objective #1: Provide current network equipment capable of supporting local and system needs.
Project 1.1.1.Continue planned replacement of obsolete network hardware. Fund balance from previous year’s telecommunications budget is used to replace network equipment.
Project 1.1.2. Monitor router/switch IOS requirements and ensure that existing equipment can be upgraded to the IOS needed to support emerging needs, e.g. Voice over IP, webcasts, etc...
Project 1.1.3. Identify network equipment spare needs and storage locations and ensure that a budget for spares is included in each annual budget as new telecommunications equipment with enhanced features are purchased.
Objective #2: Provide sufficient bandwidth to meet the normal operational needs of each location.
Project 1.2.1. Identify a method to provide sufficient bandwidth to Alpaugh to support the library automation system and shared network services. System is currently exploring cost and feasibility of Motorola’s Canopy product.
Project 1.2.2 Identify alternative solutions to growing bandwidth needs in the Southern LATA. Currently served by dual T1 lines to Fresno, the need to increase bandwidth over this costly inter-LATA connection is probable given the high bandwidth needs of the new library automation system, increasing use of webcasts for staff development, and a growing array of web-based services.
Projects 1.2.3 Annually assess branch and Internet bandwidth usage and projected needs 24 months out for e-rate application purposes.
Project 1.2.4 Identify telecommunications options for bookmobiles which can provide sufficient bandwidth for Horizon staff functions, the library catalog, and Internet-based services. Issue an RFP August 2004 as part of the e-rate application Cycle for Year 2005.
Objective #3: Provide access options for telecommuting.
Project 1.3.1 Develop in-house expertise on Virtual Private Network technology. Identify necessary hardware/software components to enable use of VPN by library managers for 2004 budget cycle.
Objective #4: Support wireless options when possible
Project 1.4.1: Support secure wireless computing within libraries using library-owned devises to improve productivity and space utilization.
Project 1.4.2: Work with member libraries and local internet service providers to provide wireless access points for library user’s own wireless devices separate from the system network.
Strategic Technology Goal #2: Improve user interface to electronic library services
Objective #1: Provide access to the library electronic library services in languages other than English.
Project 2.1.1. Implement the Spanish version of the library catalog.
Project 2.1.2. Work with system members to develop web pages in Spanish where currently lacking.
Project 2.1.3. Identify other (non-Spanish, non-English) language interface needs.
Objective #2: Develop metasearch capabilities for library electronic resources.
Project 2.2.1. Identify resources of interest on a system-wide level for consolidated searching – databases, library catalog, Internet search engines, etc. Agree on an initial wish-list for a consolidated search interface.
Project 2.2.2. Contract for consolidated search services system-wide, coordinate additional services with member libraries as needed. Because of disparities in database subscriptions and philosophies, implementation if consolidated searching at the system level will probably not meet the needs of all system members, and an approach to dealing with the diverse needs must be worked out prior to vendor selection and implementation.
Project 2.2.3. Develop patron education tools to help library users successfully navigate the results of consolidated searching.
Objective #3: Continue to pursue broader cooperative efforts with other libraries in the Valley and in the State.
Project 2.3.1 Assess the problems encountered to date in implementing a multi-type resource sharing system, and evaluate the prospects for use of URSA as a replacement for the never fully implemented RSS system. Any analysis must take into account the future of the Heartland Regional Library Network.
Project 2.3.2. Assess the potential for moving the successful, but staff intensive low-tech linked system project of the past into a computer-mediated mode using the URSA system.
Strategic Technology Goal #3: Develop in-house expertise to fully utilize available technology.
Objective #1: Ensure a base level of technical knowledge within each library jurisdiction.
Project 3.1.1. Assess usefulness of OCLC/Mindleaders online technical training. Determine if the subscriptions should be continued or expanded to include additional staff.
Project 3.1.2. Continue to explore options for delivering productivity tool training and assess cost effectiveness of purchasing training packages. Find methods to encourage all system members to provide basic computer competency training to permanent staff.
Project 3.1.3. Continue quarterly tech meetings and expand involvement to include all technical support people in the member libraries. Tech meetings are a key tool in sharing knowledge and teaching key system tools.
Project 3.1.4 Improve use of the SJVLS Tech-Talk online discussion list and archives to promote sharing of problems and solutions.
Project 3.1.5 Develop knowledge base, using available resources, such as TrackIt! and members only web site, to improve problem resolution capabilities within member libraries.
Objective #2: Identify and develop advanced technical skills.
Project 3.2.1 Identify skills sets needed in-house and skills which can be obtained through consulting contracts. Budget for both consulting and training on skill required in-house.
Objective #3: Develop expertise in the new library automation system.
Project 3.3.1. Assign responsibility for expertise on the various components of the Horizon automation system.
Project 3.3.2 Utilize existing committee meeting structure to share expertise and to ensure consistence in use of the automation system.
Project 3.3.3 Add a section to the SJVLS members only web site with updates and tips on the library automation system.
Objective #4: Develop a knowledge base to support RFID as implemented by member libraries.
Project 3.4.1 Assist with upcoming RFID projects.
Project 3.4.2 Facilitate system-wide discussions of the potential impact of RFID on system-wide resource sharing and delivery operations.