The Top Ten
Aaron Schmidt explains how to keep your library relevant
Aaron Schmidt (netConnect) -- netConnect, 1/15/2005
The Top Ten
1
Place a search box into your OPAC on the front page of your web site so users won't have to hunt for something they are after. Cost: web developer time
2
If your electronic resources offer remote usage—and maybe that should be the criteria for selection?—make them easily available on your web site. Barcode authentication is nice. Cost: web developer time
3
Allow CD burning at patron workstations. Those with slow home connectivity may want to download large files that don't fit easily on floppies. Cost: the hardware is inexpensive and relatively easy to install. It's likely to be standard on new computers
4
Just say no to dumb computers. People have expectations about computers, and ours need to behave like theirs do but better. Cost: staff time to configure a protected but free environment. Ghosting software, which restores computers to a clean state after reboot, is cheap and useful
5
Keep browsing hassle-free. Make sure users aren't bombarded by pop-ups from spyware or notices for your antivirus program. These intrusions are confusing. Cost: an initial time investment, but long-term gains when users don't turn to staff with questions about handling pop-ups
6
Answer patron emails quickly. Responding in 48 or 24 hours isn't cutting it. Cost: time. Remember, if you are responsive, and market this service, emails will increase
7
Adopt instant messaging (IM). There are over 80 million Americans using IM and at least one is a patron of your library. Make the library available in a relevant way by signing up for a free screen name and marketing it. Make signing on to IM a reference desk duty. Cost: some staff training time
8
Offer a wireless network. This is convenient for patrons and tells your community that you understand trends in technology (great PR!). Staff will appreciate the flexibility of connecting anywhere in the building as well. Cost: will vary greatly. Some 40,000 square foot libraries report they've created a wireless network for under $1000. If you don't have $1K to burn, you can create one access point for about $50 if you shop wisely. With a typical indoor range of about 150' radius, this one access point can do some serious good!
9, 10
Use blogs and Really Simple Syndication (RSS) to your advantage. Whether it is a basic staff intranet page, or the latest acquisitions page for the public, something you're doing can be made easier with blogs. RSS is a great way to keep up with news, whether your own professional reading or a subject relevant to your community. Cost: the software is free. Staff time is needed to get a blog going, but it could save time once implemented
