Project Background
From NetworkedLibraries
[edit] Project Background
Keeping up with all of the innovative developments associated with the Internet has become the defining issue for most libraries as they move into the 21st century. Discussions about the potential of web-based services and electronic resources are now the mainstay of professional conferences and publications. The successful integration of technology applications and digital content into existing services, however, has not occurred without its challenges. A survey conducted by the Library Systems Directors Organization (ILSDO) in Fall,2005, indicated that Illinois librarians are aware of new technologies have not adequately implemented them. This grant project was designed to respond to the need for models of library technology innovation and strategies for successful integration of technology with library services and collections.
On behalf of the nine Illinois regional library systems, the North Suburban Library System (NSLS) received a LSTA grant from the Illinois State Library to provide opportunities for Illinois libraries to explore the potential of technology and to foster its use in libraries. The project focused on two primary goals:
- increase awareness among Illinois libraries about the potential role of libraries as 21st Century Technology Leaders, and
- provide resources and strategies for libraries to become 21st Century Technology Leaders.
During the first phase of the project (October-December 2006), a statewide study was conducted by Charles McClure and Joe Ryan (Information Management Consultant Services / Ryan Information Management) to identify innovative technology applications, projects, and services implemented by academic, public, and school libraries in Illinois. The study generated an extensive list of innovative projects, applications, and services recently completed by the state’s library community. These innovations came from all types of libraries and from all areas in the state. They document the extent, range, and diversity of innovative technology-related activities throughout Illinois. The full study is available for review in PDF format: Libraries as 21st Century Technology Leaders: Developing a Statewide Toolkit Phase I Report and Appendix E: Selected Potential Innovative Projects/Programs/Applications.
The final project report, distributed at the Illinois Library Association Annual Conference in October, 2007 discusses the project and outlines critical characterists for libraries to be 21st Century Technology Leaders.
