 |
Keeping up with all of the innovative developments
associated with the Internet has become the defining issue
for most libraries as they move into the 21st century. Discussions
about the potential of web-based services and electronic
resources are now the mainstay of professional conferences
and publications. The successful integration of technology
applications and digital content into existing services,
however, has not occurred without its challenges. A survey conducted
by the Library
Systems Directors Organization (ILSDO) in fall 2005 indicated
that Illinois librarians are aware of new technologies have not
adequately implemented them. This grant project was designed
to respond to the need for models of library technology innovation
and strategies for successful integration of technology with
library services and collections.
On behalf of the nine Illinois regional library systems, the North
Suburban Library System (NSLS) received a LSTA grant from the Illinois
State Library to provide opportunities for Illinois libraries to
explore the potential of technology and to foster its use in libraries.
The project focused on two primary goals:
- increase awareness among Illinois libraries about the potential
role of libraries as 21st Century Technology Leaders, and
- provide resources and strategies for libraries to become 21st Century
Technology Leaders.
During the first phase of the project (October-December
2006), a statewide study was conducted by Charles McClure and Joe
Ryan (Information Management Consultant Services / Ryan Information
Management) to identify innovative technology applications, projects,
and services implemented by academic, public, and school libraries
in Illinois. The study generated an extensive list of innovative
projects, applications, and services recently completed by the state’s
library community. These innovations came from all types of libraries
and from all areas in the state. They document the extent, range,
and diversity of innovative technology-related activities throughout
Illinois. The full study is available for review in PDF format: Libraries
as 21st
Century Technology Leaders: Developing a Statewide Toolkit Phase I
Report and Appendix
E: Selected Potential Innovative Projects/Programs/Applications.
The final project report, distributed at the Illinois Library
Association Annual Conference in October 2007 discusses the
project and outlines critical characteristics for libraries
to be 21st Century Technology Leaders.
| |
