Assignment Reflection

In terms of library technology, the Joshua Hyde Library serves the Sturbridge community well. The visit, and this assignment, enhanced my awareness of current library technology issues. Although there is a long “Wish List” of things that could be added to enhance services, in small public libraries, it’s always a challenge to keep up with the fast-paced changes in technology. But it’s more than just acquiring the latest gadgets; it’s about using available resources to serve the community to the best of your ability.

I would like to thank Ms. Becky Plimpton for taking the time to answer my questions, and the JHL staff for being so gracious as I toured the library taking pictures.

Details and Looking to the Future

A few details about the computers at Joshua Hyde Library:

• Internet access is through a cable modem
• The operating system for all the computers is Windows XP
• The library uses Envisionware, a scheduling software, for patron computer use and for print management
• Each computer runs either Microsoft Security Essentials or Norton by Symantec for virus protection and ant-malware
• A copy of the library's Acceptable Use Policy is posted next to each public computer

Looking to the future, Ms. Plimpton's wish for improving the library's technology  is simply to employ at least a part-time IT person. I can imagine that it's difficult to look forward to implementing new technologies when you spend so much time troubleshooting the ones you already have.The library has a lively clientele and receives heavy use from the community, serving as a gathering place for community groups and a vital source of information for citizens of Sturbridge. If the Joshua Hyde Library intends to keep pace with today's library patron needs, it will need to seriously consider hiring a dedicated IT professional.

Security, Troubleshooting, and Assistive Technology

For physical security, Joshua Hyde Library employs an electronic security system for the building. No other materials security in currently in use.

Security System control pad (left of the door)

When asked about available assistive technology, Ms. Plimpton mentioned how they try to promote the use of E-readers for the sight impaired because the fonts can be enlarged. Of course audio books are also available for the sight impaired. A few of the computer stations are wheel chair accessible, and there is an elevator to the lower level that houses the Children's Collection.

With no dedicated IT person (not even part-time), Ms. Plimpton is responsible for troubleshooting and maintenance of  all technology equipment and software. With all of her other duties as Library Director, taking time out to perform regular maintenance on the computers is difficult. As a result, maintenance and troubleshooting only happens when a major problem arises and she could spend the better part of a day fixing those problems. There is one other knowledgeable staff member who can perform adequate troubleshooting, which is helpful. As far as technology training, Ms. Plimpton explains that most employees only know the basics.

Any shortcomings that JHL has concerning security, assistive and troubleshooting technology stem from a lack of need or a lack of funding. Ms. Plimpton is very aware of the library's technology issues and addresses them to the best of her ability.

Next Post: Details and Looking to the Future

Technology and Circulation

Joshua Hyde Library offers several options for electronic services, including the circulation of audio book CDs, DVDs, and music CDs.

History meets Technology

Audio books

More audio books

DVDs in Children's Area

audio CDs in the Children's Section

The library also offers audio book downloads through NetLibrary (http://www.netlibrary.com/) and Ebook downloads through the C/W MARS online catalog (http://cmars.cwmars.org/search~S201) that it shares with many other libraries in the Central Mass. Region. JHL circulates two of  its three Nooks, which are in high demand, for these Ebook downloads.

For gamers, JHL offers many choices of gaming software for Wii, Xbox, Playstation 3, as well as for PCs. This is a valuable resource for players to try out new games before purchasing them.

Although the electronic equipment available for check-out is limited, the amount of available media is quite impressive, and anything JHL does not have in-house can be requested through the C/W MARS catalog and sent to Sturbridge.

Next Post: Security and Troubleshooting

On-Site Visit: Technology Equipment

I visited the Joshua Hyde Library today and met with the Library Director Becky Plimpton. She got right into the nuts and bolts of the library technology by showing me the network hub nestled in the corner of her office:

Network Hub

There are two separate network services available, one public and one in-house. Patrons are allowed access to the public computers by logging into this computer with their member credentials:

And then moving on to one of several computers in the cluster for Internet access.

There are also a couple of laptops available for use or patrons can bring in their own laptops/mobile devices and take advantage of the available Wi-fi:

Some computers dedicated to library catalog searches:

Other technology hardware:

Microfilm reader/printer

Photocopier just inside the front door

Circulation Desk

Childrens Services (located downstairs)

Childrens Services

Childrens Room Computer

Childrens Room (for use by kids only!)

Next Post: Technology and Circulation

The Community Joshua Hyde Library Serves

I researched some information about the town of Sturbridge, MA to give readers a better understanding of the type of community the Joshua Hyde Library serves. The town was incorporated in 1738 and the current population is 9,785 residents. Below is a narrative taken from the Mass.gov website community profile (Mass.gov Sturbridge Community Profile):


     "Sturbridge is a small community located at the junction of Interstate 84,

Interstate 90 and US Route 20 in south- central Massachusetts.  This lively

Town is well known and loved for its sense of pride and history.  Many   

descendants of the Town's original inhabitants still reside in and provide

the character of our New England community...

   The Town is most recognized as being the home of Old Sturbridge Village. 

This recreated village within our own Town depicts the look of a typical 

New England town's past, as a recreation of life in the early 1800's.    

Among Sturbridge's other charms is the Town Common which is included in a

National Historic District.  Homes and public buildings in this area were

constructed in the late seventeenth and early eighteen hundreds and have 

been proudly maintained in near-to-original condition.  This area is also

home to The Publick House, a world famous period restaurant and inn,     

formerly the Elms Inn established in 1771. "  



Exploring the Joshua Hyde Library's website which sits within the Town of Sturbridge website, I found a number of links to additional information like online databases (GALE and Massachusetts Newsstand), the C/W MARS online catalog, the library's Facebook page, and a link to the Friends of Joshua Hyde Library website.

The Friends website has seen some upgrades with the addition of two new webmasters. I hope this is a sign that JHL now has the personnel to bring its current website more up to date and make it more user friendly.

I have yet to hear back from the Library Director about setting up a date for an on site visit and I am eager to get started.



                                                        

Thinking About Questions

The library director for the Joshua Hyde Library agreed to meet with me, but we have yet to set up a date. I hope to meet with her this week or next.

While waiting, I've been thinking about some questions I could ask about the technology in use at the JHL.

1. What is the technology budget? What portion of the overall budget is dedicated to technology and upgrades?
2. Are all staff members knowledgeable about the available technology? What about volunteers? Who    troubleshoots?
3. What software platform do you use for the OPAC?
4. What E-resources do you provide? Periodicals, Ebooks, E-reference
5. What sort of security technology is in use?
6. Do you lend out electronic equipment? Is there a demand for these devices?
7. What technologies does the library use in-house for marketing or promotion? Do you have a website?
8. What future technology improvements do you envision?

These are a few questions that I've been batting around. I look forward to the on-site visit and hope it will be a mutually beneficial one.