Crash Course In Technology Planning

This easy-to-use primer will empower anyone—even those with no IT background—to face the challenge of adding one or more technologies to library services or maintaining existing technologies. Most of the public libraries in the United States are operating on tight budgets without allocation for IT personnel; in school libraries, the librarian often takes on the lion's share of IT responsibility. This book is an invaluable guide for library staff members who are put in the position of maintaining their own networks and computers with very little training or support. Authored by an assistant library director with years of firsthand experience working as a solo IT manager within public libraries, this guide provides practical information about overcoming the unique challenges of managing IT in a smaller organization, juggling multiple job roles, being limited by a restrictive budget, and working directly with the public. Crash Course in Technology Planning addresses a wide variety of IT topics in the library sphere, providing information in a logical manner and order. It begins with an explanation of triaging existing IT issues, then moves into diagnosing and repairing both individual PCs as well as the library Local Area Network (LAN). The following chapters cover other important topics, such as the best way to inventory computers and equipment, how to budget for and procure new equipment, and recommended ways for an IT layperson to set and achieve goals.

Technology is a crucial part of libraries today. But when it comes to figuring out the most effective technologies for their library or to planning for future technology needs, many librarians don’t know where to begin. Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow is the place to start. This practical guide will be of special value to those in small- and medium-size libraries, especially those new to the planning process who have not previously implemented technology or who have had difficulty implementing strategic plans. By using this LITA guide overwhelmed librarians can create a sound, realistic technology plan and implementing that plan by identifying each step necessary to accomplish the library’s goals. As they follow this road map from beginning to end, library staff will be able to meet the technology needs of their communities and to achieve their library's technology goals. This step-by-step guide takes the reader through the process of successfully creating and implementing a library technology plan. Each chapter addresses an aspect of planning and implementation—from conducting a technology audit and selecting appropriate devices to deploying new technologies and training staff and users. Further, this LITA guide will help librarians evaluate the success of their work in developing and implementing their technology plans.

This easy-to-use primer will empower anyone—even those with no IT background—to face the challenge of adding one or more technologies to library services or maintaining existing technologies. Most of the public libraries in the United States are operating on tight budgets without allocation for IT personnel; in school libraries, the librarian often takes on the lion's share of IT responsibility. This book is an invaluable guide for library staff members who are put in the position of maintaining their own networks and computers with very little training or support. Authored by an assistant library director with years of firsthand experience working as a solo IT manager within public libraries, this guide provides practical information about overcoming the unique challenges of managing IT in a smaller organization, juggling multiple job roles, being limited by a restrictive budget, and working directly with the public. Crash Course in Technology Planning addresses a wide variety of IT topics in the library sphere, providing information in a logical manner and order. It begins with an explanation of triaging existing IT issues, then moves into diagnosing and repairing both individual PCs as well as the library Local Area Network (LAN). The following chapters cover other important topics, such as the best way to inventory computers and equipment, how to budget for and procure new equipment, and recommended ways for an IT layperson to set and achieve goals.

Crash Course in Digital Technology teaches the basics of digital electronics theory and circuits in an easy-to-understand format. Each chapter includes learning objectives, clear explanations and examples, and an end-of-chapter self-quiz. The drill-and-review software included with the book allows learners to test themselves on the contents of each chapter, providing a second reinforcement of the material. A final chapter teaches the basics of troubleshooting digital circuits. With the two other Crash Course books, Electronics Technology and Microprocessor Technology, this book forms a complete course in electronics and microcomputer technology appropriate for technical schools, industrial training, and hobbyists. Louis Frenzel is an experienced electronics engineer and educator, as well as the author of many magazine articles and texts. He is currently an instructor at Austin Community College in Austin, Texas. Drill-and-review software included Clear, easy format Self-paced introduction to digital electronics

Everything you need to know about eBooks is explained in this holistic guide to a new world of reading—from selection and curation of an eBook collection to training and support for staff and patrons. EBooks are a must for today's libraries, making this introduction indispensable for those who have yet to delve into the ever-expanding universe of downloadable material. This "crash course" is an easy-to-use, hands-on approach that will simplify the decision and implementation processes. It introduces you to eBooks and eReading and covers the many issues surrounding eBooks in circulating libraries including technology, acquisition, and training. You'll learn how to launch a program, what to buy, how to let your public know you've added eBooks to your collection, and how to circulate the materials. The guide will also help you with decisions like vendor selection, how many eBooks to purchase, which delivery platforms to employ, how best to offer access, and licensing agreements. Chapters can be consulted as stand-alone overviews of key areas, or the book can be used as a source of holistic instruction. While it will be especially useful to small or rural circulating libraries, including public libraries, school libraries, and specialty libraries that may have a small staff responsible for all aspects of library service, tips on things like promoting an eBook collection are pertinent to enhancing any collection.

Concise, informative, and well-indexed, this book helps readers get the "big picture" as well as the considerable number of details involved in managing the finances for a library. For all libraries, money is critical to decision-making about technology, staffing, and collections. As a result, informed budgeting is critically important for any library to succeed. This book explains library finance in a practical, engaging way, using examples of real situations in different types of libraries to teach key points. Written by authors with years of experience in budgeting and financial planning within a variety of library settings and in teaching library management or fundraising at the university level, Crash Course in Library Budgeting and Finance makes it painless to learn how to properly manage money in any library environment. The book addresses the entire process of financial planning, from a general, conceptual overview of library budgeting to the details of generating and spending income, and describes best practices for implementing financial controls. Subjects covered include building construction and capital projects, fund raising, capital campaigns, moving to fee-based services, extending and developing earned income, financial best practices, and assessment and evaluation. The authors also make recommendations regarding when and how to share relevant financial information throughout the organization and with constituents throughout the book.