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Technology Wish List?
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Technology Wish List?
5:14 PM EDT 6/27/06
We are trying to create a 'wish list' for new technology purchasing. This list will be a true 'wish list', in that it will go above and beyond the basics (basics being items such as public access computers, printers, basic software, digital camera, scanner etc). We would love to hear (grander) ideas in this regard and especially if anyone out there has made such purchases and for what type of project.

One example of this would be items such as video camera equipment to enable the library to film town meetings in our community room for local cable channels, or even use that same equipment to broadcast author visits on the local cable channel.

We're thinking big here, so any ideas would be greatly appreciated!!!
Re: Technology Wish List?
9:42 PM EDT 6/27/06 as a reply to Christina Jennerich.
Welcome to WebJunction - that is really such a hard question to answer - there are so many things that you could put on the list. Is it going to be linked to certain community services or needs later? Maybe giving some additional ideas of what exists in your community as far as resources would also help to generate some ideas.

For me, a wish list would start with some type of computer equipment (and the attendant training) to enable your community to become producers of content, not just consumers. This might be a high-end editing station and free storage space for patrons engaged in community activities, in addition to a digital movie camera and attendant accessories. I always think many libraries could play a similar role to the Grand Rapids Media Center in their communities - http://mollie.grcmc.org/

Possibly you might also look at some type of mobile platform for staff - PDAs or a Tablet-based laptop and also a "circulating" collection of similar equipment for the patrons.

Some type of media download, photo printing, media upload express station. This is hard to explain, but something along the liens of a kiosk that allows patrons to upload and download media form any type of storage device / stick / card. In addition, a circulating collection of media devices (i.e MP3 players)

An Internet2 connection - http://k20.internet2.edu/index.php

A distance-learning lab with full videoconferencing capabilities

Take a look at Cerritos (CA) for some other ideas and Orange County (FL) is almost always trying out new technologies.

I am assuming that Wi-Fi falls into the basic category. Same with an updated IP Phone system.

I generally do not lust after Microsoft products, but the capabilities of their Live Communications Server intrigue me if you are looking at some type of solution for staff communication.

The Evergreen ILS (http://www.open-ils.org/) with an OPAC interface that looks like LivePlasma.com

A budget to train a willing staff
Re: Technology Wish List?
1:24 PM EDT 8/1/06 as a reply to Christina Jennerich.
Few library directors would extend library hours without adding additional library staff to support that service. Yet, all too often no thought is given to adding additional staff when adding more technology and electronic services.

The reality is the more an organization uses technology the more resources they need to invest into technology, both financial and human.

So, your wish list would be incomplete without a request for staff to support those new technologies.
Re: Technology Wish List?
11:43 AM EDT 8/2/06 as a reply to Christina Jennerich.
A couple of things we bought that get a lot of use are 1) a large format HP DesignJet printer. This is a color printer that prints on 36" wide rolls of paper. We didn't like the clutter of all the 81/2 x 11 signs all over the place. Instead, we use large graphic based signage for directional signage as well as program announcements. We get stock photography from www.istockphoto.com and can put together some nice looking graphics on the cheap. And 2) a metal, professional DDR dance pad. DDR is a PS2 video game whoise full name is Dance Dance Revolution that uses a square dance pad as an input device instead of hand-held controller. For any teen programming, we also put out the DDR dance pads and set up a PS2 player, speakers and a video projector and let the good times roll.
Re: Technology Wish List?
2:15 PM EDT 8/2/06 as a reply to Migell Acosta.
Thanks for telling us about the DDR dance pad. There's a discussion going on over in the [url /forums/thread.jspa?messageID=32370繲 ]YA forum[/url] about gaming programming for teens. If you'd like to share more information about how your DDR games roll at your library, I'm sure the YA staff would love to hear the details. emoticon
Re: Technology Wish List?
3:15 PM EDT 8/17/06 as a reply to Christina Jennerich.
Our wish list is to have live cameras broadcasts for public meetings with the local cable company. Also, we have staff who "roam" walk around the library helping customers/patrons in need. We need a hand held device that is light weight, easy to carry and easy to read by both staff and customer/patron. Wireless of course with access to the Internet, library databases, and all the other stuff we use. How about a way for recording book talks, programs, and other library activities that will allow virtual participation.