Focus:Main:Infrastructure
From NetworkedLibraries
[edit] Management of Technology Infrastructure
A robust and well integrated technology infrastructure is another defining characteristic of a library that is a 21st Century Technology Leader. While the technology adoptions by many libraries tend to be add-ons or applied in a piecemeal fashion, the technology applications introduced by a 21st Century Technology Leader emerge from technology planning that is an integral part of the library’s overall strategic planning. Technology planning is ongoing in that the results of needs assessment and evaluation are continuously fed into the development of goals and initiatives. Technology upgrades and replacements are planned, rather than dealt with on an “as-needed” basis. It is assumed that the library’s hardware, software, and telecommunications network should be developed to keep pace with the requirements of new technology applications. In this way, technology planning and management are proactive versus reactive. Likewise, computer and network security is in place to ensure smooth and secure interactions and routing within the technology infrastructure. For some libraries, aspects of technology administration may be handled through contracted services (e.g., web hosting) to leverage the library’s capacity for technology innovation.
A robust and well managed technology infrastructure also means that library transactions appear integrated and responsive to the library user. For example, the interface between the online catalog, acquisitions, serials, and circulation modules run uninterrupted or unhindered by network traffic throughout the day. Access to information resources, as well as search and retrieval capabilities, is available seamlessly to library users within the library and from remote locations.
[edit] Key Principles
- Libraries practice effective management of their technology infrastructure (i.e., hardware and software, telecommunications, etc.)
