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September 13, 2007
Technology Planning in Public Libraries
The AP has picked up this story:
Despite Demand, Libraries Won't Add PCs
By ANICK JESDANUN
"A new study from the American Library Association, scheduled for release Wednesday, finds the average number of public Internet terminals largely unchanged since 2002, yet only 1 in 5 libraries say they have enough computers to meet demand at all times."
Now there are lots of reasons why PC aren't replaced or added to on a timely basis:
- budget
- lack of a long term tech plan
- money spent on software
- over dependence on CAP (in Canada) or Gates Foundation
- lack of buy-in from Board or community
- etc.
However, we do play a key role in bridging the digital divide. If that's a key goal - especially in challenged communities like the inner city, reservations, or small towns - then we should have a clear plan for keepiong our hardware and software strategies at the right point to meet those goals.
Is it time to update or polish your technology plan?
Stephen
Posted by stephen at September 13, 2007 1:52 PM
Comments
If you can't get more terminals into public libraries, you can at least make public libraries free Wifi hotspots so laptop users, whose numbers are increasing according to your posts, can Bring Their Own CPUs.
Posted by: Mike at September 21, 2007 1:10 PM