Thanks to all those who have already contributed to LGLibTech in its pre
formal launch phase

______________________________________________________

Local Government Library Technology website launched as Government releases
its policy statement on the future of public libraries. [1]

 

The Local Government Library Technology 'LGLibTech 'website
(http://lglibtech.wikispaces.com <http://lglibtech.wikispaces.com/> /) is
formally launched today. It provides a community resource not only about
specific technologies in use in public libraries but also the major
technology related issues libraries face such as shared services,
outsourcing, electronic books, open source software and social media/Web
2.0. No other resource has the same up-to-date coverage and such an
inclusive approach to contributions. The LGLibTech wiki provides a platform
to keep track of the systems and technologies in use in every UK library
authority.  It also provides valuable up-to-date content and resources on
topics of interest and concern.

 

[1] 'Modernisation Review of Public Libraries: A Policy Statement at' DCMS
March 2010. Cm 7821. ISBN: 9780101782128
http://www.dcms.gov.uk/reference_library/consultations/6752.aspx.

 

CONTINUES

 

The government clearly acknowledges that one of the key drivers for change
is technology. Some commentators recognise that the Internet based networked
information economy touches the very 'stuff' of libraries. What other
service run by local government faces such dramatic competition from the
web? For many Amazon is their 'library catalogue' and Google and/or
Wikipedia answer their reference enquiries. In its mission statement Google
defines itself clearly as a library company and has already digitised and
made available more books that most public libraries hold. The government
acknowledges the continuing and vital contribution libraries make to their
communities and the role technology will have in transforming services.

LGLibTech lists all 200+ library authorities throughout the UK and the
systems they use. All libraries make extensive use of IT to manage back
office functions and important front line services. Many public libraries
were pioneers in delivery of services over the web and are now embracing
technologies such as RFID (Radio Frequency ID) and electronic books to
enhance the service they provide to their customers. Several public
libraries make use of social media tools such as blogs, wikis and social
networking sites such as Facebook as new ways to engage with the public.
Local Government puts considerable investment into technology in libraries
and is looking to IT to enable efficiencies and to transform local services.
This is putting increasing pressure on the systems used in libraries.
LGLibTech provides a community space to contribute to the better use of
Local Government Library Technology. 

LGLibTech fully embraces the 'web 2.0' approach and is the product of a
genuine community effort. It is a wiki and is open to all. This approach
enables advantage to be taken of expertise wherever it may be found. The
nature of a wiki means it is never 'finished' but already LGLibTech contains
a wealth of useful, up-to-date information on issues around library
technology in local authorities. Anyone can sign up to contribute and Laurie
Edmonds from Ken Chad Consulting has the role of 'WikiMaster' to help and
encourage the community of contributors.

 

Ken Chad, CEO of Ken Chad Consulting commented: 'The library technology
landscape is changing rapidly and it is difficult to keep pace with what is
going on. In this harsh economic climate libraries should be looking hard at
how to get more from their investment in technology. The issues confronting
local authorities regarding library technologies are often complex and good
up-to-date information is important to decision making. LGLibTech is
therefore a very timely and valuable resource.  I'm impressed by the variety
of people from a range of organisations have already got involved'

 

For more information go to  <http://lglibtech.wikispaces.com/>
http://lglibtech.wikispaces.com/ or contact:-

 

 

Ken

Ken Chad Consulting Ltd

16 Regency Court. Brentwood. UK

Tel +44 (0)7788 727 845. Email: [log in to unmask]
www.kenchadconsulting.com <http://www.kenchadconsulting.com/> 

Skype: kenchadconsulting