Technology Plan

Goal 1: Develop and implement electronic resources to effectively meet the needs of the Block Island community.

Objective A: Provide cost-effective electronic resources that fulfill the library’s strategic plan for public services.

Activities for Implementation
  • Annually evaluate and implement or renew online database subscriptions that meet the needs of the community.
  • Purchase Microsoft Office 2010 software for both the staff and public computers.
  • Investigate and evaluate software or online subscriptions for GED prep, SAT prep and typing instruction.
  • Provide educational and interactive software for children and young adults.

Objective B: Provide assistance and training for the public and the staff in using the library’s electronic resources.

Activities for Implementation
  • Provide online help documents, available thru the library web site for software programs offered by the library.
  • Create “how-to” video tutorials for e-commerce, ezone, e-readers, Envisionware and all other electronic resources, tools and gadgets.
  • Strategize a space as well as opportunities for young adults/teens to harness creativity, including web design, writing, publishing and production and editing of music and video.

Goal 2: Provide electronic resources that allow staff to carry out work functions effectively and efficiently.

Objective A: Maintain a training program so staff can perform effectively in their own jobs and can provide knowledgeable assistance to the public.

Activities for Implementation
  • Hold at least five staff group sessions per year based on competency lists and results of technology skills survey.
  • Schedule at least one staff meeting program per year to review or introduce new technology in the library.
  • Provide online tutorials or training for staff to learn at their own pace.
  • Develop role-based technology competencies based on WebJunction’s Competency Index for the Library Field.
  • Assess staff competencies by having staff complete the TechAtlas Technology Skills Survey annually and strive for improvement through needed staff training driven by survey results.

Objective B: Deliver catalog and reference service away from the traditional reference desk scenario by using wireless connectivity in the stacks and on the floor.

Activities for Implementation
  • Purchase handheld wireless devices to be used in roaming reference and reader’s advisory. These handheld devices will also be used as telephones away from the desk.
  • Train staff on use of handheld devices and reference service to provide competent and efficient assistance to patrons using wireless technology.
  • Purchase handheld wireless devices to be used for collections inventory.
  • Train staff on use of handheld devices for inventory using wireless technology.

Goal 3: Electronic Collection Development and Web Services — Select, organize and maintain a quality collection of electronic materials which will provide a basis for community information, education, recreation and historical preservation.

Objective A: Improve and expand service to people who potentially will or already do use the library virtually rather than in person.

Activities for Implementation
  • Add online catalog features such as RSS feeds, My Lists, patron reviews and Nearby on Shelf to add more patron interaction and functionality to the catalog.
  • Redesign the library’s website.
  • Create a functional mobile website to allow commuters, pedestrians and visitors on-the-go access to the library’s resources quickly and seamlessly.
  • Utilize existing social networking tools and sites to develop a social network presence.
  • Investigate the optimal way to offer frequently asked reference questions to the public via the website.
  • Acquire more digital tools to share with the public to provide hands-on access and information thru the development of the “technology petting zoo” and the “gadget mobile”.
  • Strategize with the Sr. Advisory Committee for ways to expose the senior population on Block Island to new technologies and electronic resources.

Objective B: Convert as many local history resources as possible to electronic format to increase accessibility and help preserve the collection.

Activities for Implementation
  • Investigate digitizing photographs and documents from the Block Island History Collection.
  • Link the Block Island History Collection to the library’s website.

Goal 4: Facilities and Equipment — Provide technology resources to support the objectives of the library.

Objective A: Maintain network equipment and resources to ensure a stable computing environment.

Activities for Implementation
  • Review existing technology policies annually and make recommendations for new policies.
  • Implement annual and special Innovative upgrades.
  • Annually review software and equipment licenses and maintenance agreements and renew as needed.
  • Investigate VOIP (Voice over IP) telecommunications to replace the current telephone system.
  • Investigate touch screen scan station.

Objective B: Implement green technology practices that preserve the environment and save money through reduced consumption.

Activities for Implementation
  • Encourage staff participation in online webinars, videoconferences and workshops thus reducing travel.
  • Install Microsoft Office OneNote and encourage staff to enter random notes, procedures and data in a single location (private and/or shared) that eliminates binders and pages of information.
  • Investigate energy management software for the network to track energy usage on the network and make suggestions for reducing consumption.
  • Reorganize copier, printer, fax, scanner and photo printer capabilities for minimal electricity consumption and reduced supplies.

Objective C: Investigate funding technologies projects within financial constraints to develop and sustain needed and effective information services.

Activities for Implementation
  • Investigate, prepare and submit a digitization grant that fits the scope requested, and adheres to state standards.
  • Investigate LSTA technology grants and apply to applicable grant opportunities.
  • Investigate and apply to other grants funding the enhancement of technology in the library.
  • Continue to appeal for Town of New Shoreham capital project money to ensure the continued advancement of technology in the library.
  • Pursuit Sony e-reader library program.

Objective D: Implement and maintain security and disaster prevention practices to ensure a stable and secure environment.

Activities for Implementation
  • Continue to comply with the provisions of the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) to remain eligible for federal funding under E-Rate, LSTA and other federally funded programs.
  • Review and update disaster plan annually to ensure preventative measures regarding the technology plan and its implementation.