Describes the development of a courier service in Oregon for document delivery between libraries to support coordinated collection development activities. Organization of the service by individual libraries without dependence on the Library Services and Construction Act is discussed, and costs and response time are considered. (two references)…

Explains how to keep library systems healthy and functioning by taking sensible security measures. Examines why hackers would target library systems and how library systems are compromised. Describes tools that can help, including: firewalls; antivirus software; alarms; network analysis tools; and encryption. Identifies several strategies for…

Describes the experiences at the Williamsburg (Virginia) Regional Library when the children's department closed for two months for renovations and temporary quarters were created in a bookmobile in a nearby parking lot. Discusses technology challenges involved in hooking up computers, selecting an appropriate collection that would fit, and…

Suggests guidelines to be followed by library administrators and managers to deal effectively with changes caused by the introduction of automation or technology projects within a library. The need for planning is emphasized, staff participation is stressed, adequate training and preparation are discussed, and financial planning is considered.…

Describes library automation issues during the planning and construction of College Hill Library (Colorado), a joint-use facility shared by a community college and a public library. Discuses computer networks; hardware selection; public access to catalogs and electronic resources; classification schemes and bibliographic data; children's…

Addresses how libraries can prepare for Y2K problems. Discusses technology that might be affected and equipment that should be examined, difficulty of fixing noncompliant hardware and software, identifying problem areas and developing solutions, and dealing with vendors. Includes a checklist of necessary preparations. (AEF)

Describes the Rochester (New York) Public Library's expansion and renovation. Highlights include funding; public relations and marketing plans; access to state-of-the-art technology, including dial-in access; marketing surveys; connecting with local media; involvement of the private sector; and meeting users' heightened expectations for library…

Describes how a library, with an MCI Corporation grant, approached the process of setting up computers for the visually impaired. Discusses preparations, which included hiring a visually-impaired user as a consultant and contacting the VIP (Visually Impaired Persons) group; equipment; problems with the graphical user interface; and training.…

Discusses library planning that is needed when changing from one computer system to another. Topics discussed include change theory; the need for communication between library administration and staff and between the library and its users; phased implementation; training for library staff and for users; and the need for documentation. (seven…

Describes strategic planning at Marquette University libraries. Highlights include technology-planning efforts for a Web-based online catalog; goals of improving user independence and speed of access to information; staff participation; funding issues, including support of the Parents Association; and software selection. (LRW)

Describes spyware, discusses how it gets on a computer. Explains how spyware can be useful for parents, employers, and libraries. Discusses how spyware is more often used for others' gain or for surveillance without notification, how it can go undetected, and how libraries can help keep computers and patrons protected from remote installation of…

Memorial Hall Library in Andover, Massachusetts wanted to offer live reference service online but with limited resources, they couldn't do it alone. The 24/7 Reference cooperative program administered by the California State Library required Memorial Hall's librarians to monitor only 10 hours a week in return for live reference coverage. Memorial…

Discusses the importance of library systems administrators addressing the Year 2000 problem in their libraries. Reviews Web-based resources that deal with understanding the problem, offer vendor statements about their products, and discuss how some libraries are preparing for the Year 2000 problem. (AEF)

Identifies key issues and provides strategies for building a library Web site. Highlights include defining the purpose in accordance with what is technically possible; the server; connectivity; designation of responsibilities; page and link maintenance and enhancement; administrative organization, including a Web Governing Group, Web…

This special section on local area networks includes three articles: (1) a description of migration at Joyner Library, East Carolina University (North Carolina) to a new network server; (2) a discussion of factors to consider for network planning in school libraries; and (3) a directory of companies supplying cable, hardware, software, and…