Libraries of Foster

Technology Plan 2012-2015

Vision Statement:

The Libraries of Foster will serve as the “information hub” for the community.

Goal 1: To provide patrons with up-to-date technology.

I. The library will provide computers and other technology that meets patron demand.

a. The library will purchase new equipment on a schedule recommended by the OSL

technical staff.

b. The Director will take part in OSL consortium grant requests i.e. Champlin grants to upgrade technology. In the absence of consortium grant funding, the Director will seek other funding sources such as the Friends group, legislative and/or private grants and donations.

II. The Director will stay abreast of new initiatives and trends in technology and consider their relevance to the library and the community.

a. The library will create comfortable spaces for patrons to use laptops by the spring of 2012.

b. The library will provide eReaders for patron use effective in early 2012.

c. The library will increase eBook and audio book purchases through Ezone relative to the percentage of local patron’s usage with the base year being 10% of the library’s book budget.

d. The library will increase communication with patrons, utilizing the most widely used social networking applications.

Goal 2: Patrons will be given assistance using technology by trained staff.

I. The staff of the Libraries of Foster will be trained on an on-going basis in emerging technologies.

a. The Director will obtain training prior to introducing new technology from whatever source is appropriate and accessible.

b. The Director will train or provide training for the staff as new technology is introduced.

c. Staff will be assessed by the Director for proficiencies for each new technology.

d. Computer classes will be offered on a monthly basis to patrons.

 

Goal 3: Library services will be available “virtually” to patrons 24/7.

I. The library will provide and maintain a website.

a. The library’s website will provide a link to the Ocean State Libraries Online Public Access Catalog.

b. The website will provide a link to askRI databases and OSL databases.

c. The website will continue to provide an email link for general library or reference questions.

d. The library will begin to participate in the delivery of library services via Smartphones and other popular hand held devices by late 2013.