Skip to content
(219) 873-3042 | 100 E. 4th Street, Michigan City, IN 46360 | Open Monday-Thursday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Michigan City Public Library
Three Year Technology Plan
2017 to 2019

Michigan City Public Library Technology Plan Committee
December 21, 2016

Committee Members:
Kynan Wallace, Technology Specialist
Pam Stephany, Reference, Department Head
Lori Richardson, Youth Services, Department Head
Michelle Burkhart, Reference, Assistant Supervisor
Dave Fink, Youth Services Librarian
Don Varda, Youth Services Librarian
Andrew Smith, Assistant Director

Board Approved December 21, 2016

I.      Background Information

The Michigan City Public Library has served its community since 1897. In 1895, with money from two prominent Michigan City benefactors, George Ames and John H. Barker, a newly formed library association constructed the first library building on the northeast corner of Eight and Spring Streets. On October 9, 1897, the Michigan City Public Library opened and started its one hundred-plus years of service to the greater Michigan City community. By 1975, the library had outgrown its 78-year-old building and a new facility, designed by Helmut Jahn, was commissioned.  Opened in 1977, the library has won numerous architectural awards and is widely recognized as a showpiece for Michigan City.

A community cultural and information center, the Michigan City Public Library is one of the most active locations in the city. The library’s commitment to literacy and learning is demonstrated through its collections as well as programs such as The Learning Center, a successful tutoring program for adults and children; 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten early literacy program; the Story Time series; STEAM Ahead Kids active learning series; and more. The library offers hands-on assistance with other community needs, including a resume assistance program, VITA tax assistance program, and referrals to community resources. The library addresses the cultural needs of the city through collections and programming such as the renowned Writing Out Loud series, film festivals, special-interest clubs like Knitting Group and Duneland Stamp Club, discussion groups, performances, and other offerings. Through its many roles, the Michigan City Public Library demonstrates its commitment to service to the community and leadership in modern library service.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Michigan City Public Library is to provide a center for information, education, culture, and recreation for all patrons throughout their life span, through its collection, programs, and special services.

Goals of the Michigan City Public Library

The following five goals will best enable the Michigan City Public Library to fulfill its mission:

-provide information;

-provide education and instruction;

-provide cultural experience, awareness, and potential growth;

-provide recreation for all users of the library;

-provide access.

Objectives of the Michigan City Public Library

To best fulfill its goals and mission, the Michigan City Public Library will strive to meet the following five objectives:

-Acquire a collection of materials in a variety of formats to meet and anticipate the needs of our patrons; to organize these materials for ready access and offer guidance and encouragement in their use.  The American Library Association standards and our selection and collection development policies shall provide the guidelines for material selection, acquisition, retention, and disposal.

-Maintain our facility for greatest use.

-Create public service programs that meet the needs and wants of our patrons and enhance the library’s relevance to their everyday lives.

-Employ competent, creative, and well-educated staff members and promote their development by providing challenges, involvement, encouragement, financial remuneration, training, and personal growth throughout their employment life in the library.

-Endeavor to secure funding necessary to provide quality services, programs, and collections.

II. Review of Existing Technology

Automation System

In 1977, the library installed CLSI’s (later to become GEAC) LIBS automation system to modernize basic and routine library functions such as circulation and database management, becoming the first automated library in the state of Indiana. In 1993, the library converted to GEAC’s LIBS 100Plus automation system. In 1999, the library migrated to the PC-based Taos system and Web2PAC from DRA until 2002, when DRA merged with SirsiDynix and the library migrated to SirsiDynix Unicorn and Web2 catalog.

In 2010, the library migrated to its current ILS (integrated library system), Symphony, and its online catalog, eLibrary. The SirsiDynix Symphony ILS is used by the library to catalog materials according to the nationally recognized cataloging standards of the Dewey Decimal System. In 2016, the library migrated to remote hosting of Symphony and ELibrary (BlueCloud PAC) through SirsiDynix (all backups of Symphony and ELibrary instances are handled by SirsiDynix). The eLibrary catalog also includes enhancements such as access to digital titles. Two self-check units are available for patron use and are fully integrated with the ILS. MobileCirc, a product from SirsiDynix, is used by staff when doing patron registration drives in the community or special presentations to outside groups by providing wireless connectivity to the library’s live database. It includes a printer.

Circulation and cataloging clients access the databases using a IP/TCP ether-network. In-house patrons using the OPACs and at-home patrons using the Internet access the online catalog via browsers using HTTPS. Patron account information transmitted over the Internet is encrypted via SSL.

Network

The library’s main server is used for email and WEB services. Another server handles the obituary database and audio streaming. For security, all servers are blocked at a firewall from the Internet by a Unified Threat Management server.

The library has its own web server for our web site, e-mail, and domain name service. The server is currently a 3.0GHz Quad Core computer running Linux and using Apache Webserver and Q-Mail with spam and virus filtering. An auxiliary server handles queries for such databases as the Obituary Database maintained by the Reference staff.

Except for a few dedicated computers, all computers in the library are networked via Ethernet. The network consists of:
1. A firewall, a UTM server and numerous high speed Ethernet switches;
2. A central 1 GHz Ethernet switch in the computer room;
3. Category 5 cable from the hubs and central switch to servers and clients.

Servers are connected at 1GHz.

High-speed Internet is provided through a Comcast Business Class connection. Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire library via a WPA2 encrypted signal.

Staff client computers are Windows 7 and 10. Various levels of access and authority are enforced by SirsiDynix policies and user/password protection within the ILS. The cataloging clients have access to the Online Computer Library Center or OCLC, using the z39.50 client/server built into the cataloging software. The library uses a report writing utility software in its Symphony system.

The library currently has 19 networked workstations for public use, all able to access the Internet. All public workstations print to two central printers, color and black & white, at the Reference Desk. Of the 19 stations, 15 are available for both Internet and word processing functions, three are available only for word processing functions, and one is available only for genealogy subscription databases. The library uses the mConsole workstation, waiting list, and print management technology, enabling more accurate accounting and allocation of computer resources while allowing staff more time to assist with other patron needs.

All Internet/word processing stations include Microsoft Office 2007 software. Three scanners, one stationary and one portable, are available for public use at any workstation. All computer services are free of charge, except printing, and do not require a library card to access. All public workstations were replaced or upgraded to Windows 7 in 2015.

The Youth Services Department has three AWE Early Literacy Stations, which were originally acquired in 2007 and replaced in 2015. A dedicated Accelerated Reader computer was installed in 2016.

The library also subscribes to additional commercial databases, including Gale Legal Forms, Ancestry Library Edition, HeritageQuest, NoveList Complete, Gale Virtual Reference Library and Pronunciator. Databases are reviewed by staff members on a regular basis. The Reference Department maintains an online index of obituaries that appeared in Michigan City newspapers. The library emails custom e-newsletters for book suggestions, library events, and other topics using the LibraryAware service.

Accessible stations, including OPAC, Internet, word processing, and Genealogy, are available throughout the library. All stations are placed on ADA compliant tables.

OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) stations are located in the front lobby area, Reference (four) and Youth Services (four). All cataloged materials in the library are searchable either via the dedicated OPACs or through any browser connected to the Internet.

Telephony

The library currently uses the Centrex phone system. There are four fax lines in the library: Administration, Circulation, Reference and Technical Services. There is a pay phone available to patrons.

Digital Collections/Services

Beginning in 2015, the library began licensing eBooks and eAudiobooks through Baker & Taylor’s Axis 360 service. INSPIRE, the statewide contracted commercial database free to all Indiana residents, is linked on all Internet stations and library staff promotes its use by directing patrons to its many resources. The library also subscribes to additional commercial databases, including Gale Legal Forms, Ancestry Library Edition, HeritageQuest, NoveList Complete, Gale Virtual Reference Library and Pronunciator. Databases are reviewed by staff members on a regular basis. In addition, the LibraryAware service allows the library to send custom e-newsletters for book suggestions, library events, and other topics to patrons who opt in.

In 2016, with the assistance of a volunteer local historian, the library completed the scanning of a 6,000+ item local history slide collection. Many of the digital images have been shared on the library’s Facebook and HistoryPin pages. The images are still being researched and organized toward the end of being available in an online archive.

Miscellaneous

The library provides public access to two copiers. Three microfilm readers networked to two printers provide public access to the library’s microfilm collection. A digital picture frame is used to highlight historical images from the library’s collection. A laptop computer, DVD, overhead video projector, and microphone system are available to groups using the library’s meeting room. There are iPads, Kindles, and several other portable digital devices used by staff for training, practice with digital collections, and development of social media content. A DVD cleaning machine is available to Circulation staff. Finally, there is a multi-camera security system.

III.     Executive Summary

This Technology Plan represents an in-depth review and evaluation of existing automated services and resources at the Michigan City Public Library and consideration of items for future development. All items in this plan have received careful consideration based on available funds, staff and requirements of the state of Indiana. The plan reflects both the needs of the library’s patrons and the greater interest of the community in general.

IV. Goals and Strategies

All items contained herein are subject to available funding and staffing and meeting required standards as set by the Indiana State Library.

Goal: Provide high-speed and stable access to the Internet in the Computer Lab and Wi-Fi.

Strategies:

  • Monitor the existing electrical systems to determine if additional circuits are needed to meet demand, if existing circuits need to be redistributed, and to ensure electrical systems are up to code. Timeline: ongoing
  • Monitor the library’s data cabling to ensure cabling is up to date. Timeline: ongoing
  • Monitor the library’s Wi-Fi access to ensure best connectivity is achieved and make improvements to the wireless network as needed. Timeline: ongoing
  • Determine additional workstation needs or the need for transfer of existing workstations for Internet access, Word processing and other general application software, OPACs, genealogy research, and online databases. Timeline: ongoing
  • Investigate options to provide group or parent/child computer stations. Timeline: 2019
  • Inspect all hardware regularly to ensure it is in good working order, and purchase needed equipment to maintain and improve system performance. Timeline: ongoing
  • Consider ways to provide more privacy for patrons in the Computer Lab, such as filter screens or partitions. Timeline: 2017-2018
  • Evaluate need for adaptive technology computers, and research ways to make technology more accessible for individuals with disabilities. Timeline: ongoing

 
Goal: Provide improved library services through electronic resources and emerging technologies.

Strategies:

  • Evaluate existing subscription databases/services and review new databases/services to meet the needs of patrons. Timeline: ongoing
  • Further develop catalog according to access trends while maintaining accessible and consistent bibliographic databases. Timeline: ongoing
  • Integrate electronic titles into the library catalog. Timeline: 2017
  • Investigate additional catalog enhancements, such as jacket images, patron tagging, etc. Timeline: 2017
  • Identify ways to offer printing via the Wi-Fi network, such as a wireless printing service. Timeline: 2018-2019
  • Investigate adding new formats, such as streaming audio and video, music downloads (i.e. Freegal), and e-magazines to the library’s circulating collections and budget accordingly. Timeline: 2017-2018 and ongoing
  • Replace microfilm reader printers for improved performance and outfit microfilm reader with USB connection to allow for print-to-PDF. Timeline: 2017
  • Research options to provide online component to annual Summer Reading Program. Timeline: 2018-2019
  • Monitor and implement emerging technologies whenever appropriate. Timeline: ongoing

 
Goal: Create and maintain an up-to-date library web presence that supports the library’s mission and provides ease of use for patrons

Strategies:

  • Create a new website using a Content Management System, such as WordPress, that allows multiple staff members to manage content. Timeline: 2017
  • Ensure that website is responsive and functions well on devices/computers of varying viewport sizes. Timeline: 2017 and ongoing
  • Ensure that website meets modern web validation and accessibility standards. Timeline: ongoing
  • Implement a remote web hosting service. Timeline: 2017
  • Incorporate greater use of video, audio, and images along with text in web and social media to increase patron engagement and highlight library services. Timeline: ongoing
  • Create style guidelines for website content. Timeline: 2017
  • Provide training to staff members in website content development, style guidelines and website maintenance. Timeline: 2017 and ongoing
  • Conduct usability testing with the website to determine areas to improve functionality and navigation. Timeline: 2017 and ongoing
  • Create and maintain a website page inventory and revision schedule. Timeline: 2017 and ongoing

 
Goal: Promote awareness of the library’s electronic resources to schools, community groups, businesses, and the general public.

Strategies:

  • Create and distribute promotional materials featuring resources to targeted to special interest groups. Timeline: ongoing
  • Actively solicit and use email addresses and other contact information, with appropriate opt-out procedures, to build promotions database and provide information about the library. Timeline: ongoing
  • Engage community members on social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and HistoryPin, and any other new platforms as they develop. Timeline: ongoing
  • Include announcements about electronic resources in weekly Library Beat and radio appearances. Timeline: ongoing
  • Highlight INSPIRE, electronic resources, web-based subscriptions, and other services on library website and e-newsletters on a rotating basis. Timeline: ongoing
  • Provide class/school visits, library tours, informational flyers, and youth programs to highlight resources. Timeline: ongoing

 
Goal: Digitize and provide online access to local history materials to make the materials more accessible and to aid in preserving them

Strategies:

  • Research and organize the recently-digitized images from the Historic Slide Collection. Timeline: 2017 and ongoing
  • Investigate remote online repositories (such as Indiana Memory) and in-house hosting options for digital collections. Timeline: 2018
  • Develop community partnerships with local historical, nonprofit, and booster organizations to publicize and expand online repository. Timeline: 2018-2019
  • Work with the local Uptown Arts District organizations to create and promote a History Walk using digital photos, oral history snippets, and other audio-visual materials. Timeline: 2018-2019
  • Seek funding to support a digital library of historical materials and additional digitizing of local history resources. Timeline: ongoing
  • Identify options for the digitization of local newspaper microfilms and other archived materials. Timeline: 2018-2019

 
Goal: Leverage social media channels to engage with the community, enhance our relationship with patrons, and promote library services and programs.

Strategies:

  • Develop a social media plan and annual content calendar. Timeline: 2018, then annually
  • Investigate social media outlets to identify those that offer the best return on investment (ROI) for library engagement. Timeline: ongoing
  • Investigate methods to share content between social media content creators. Timeline: 2017, ongoing
  • Review literature on best practices for social media. Timeline: ongoing
  • Build engagement on social media through live chats, polls, contests, and other interactive elements that are appropriate for the channel. Timeline: ongoing
  • Evaluate results from social media activities to adjust social media strategy. Timeline: ongoing

 
Goal: Provide training to the public on technology topics and resources.

Strategies:

  • Expand and publicize library’s Book-a-Librarian one-on-one computer/technology assistance service. Timeline: 2017-2019
  • Create print and electronic handouts and tutorials on technology topics of interest. Timeline: ongoing
  • Provide in-person workshops on technology topics, as demand and resources allow. Timeline: 2017-2019
  • Partner with community organizations and promote training available through Grace Learning Center, Keys to Hope Resource Center, WorkOne, INSPIRE, and other resources. Timeline: ongoing
  • Develop video training tutorials that can be recorded and broadcast on local cable access and accessible through the library website. Timeline: ongoing
  • Maintain a collection of both circulating and in-house materials that can assist patrons with self-education. Timeline: ongoing

 
Goal: Ensure that staff members have technology and support necessary to effectively perform their roles.

Strategies:

  • Replace outdated staff computers and peripherals, and determine future replacement needs. Timeline: 2017, ongoing
  • Upgrade and standardize software used in the library to facilitate more effective training, use, and management of software. Allow staff the flexibility to use software for specialized applications beyond the approved core list of software. Timeline: 2017-2019
  • Provide a safe and healthy work environment for all staff, including ergonomic furniture and efficient lighting. Timeline: ongoing
  • Provide training to staff in the use of library technology, including SirsiDynix LIS, Axis 360 eBook/eAudiobook delivery system, databases, LibraryAware promotions service, website content development, social media, and other systems necessary for individual staff roles. Timeline: 2017, ongoing
  • Add Mobile Circulation feature to the ILS for staff to use when doing public events outside of the library. Timeline: 2017

V. Professional Development Strategy

Goal: Provide training to staff members in the use of library technology and information systems, eBook and digital delivery systems, databases, and other library-related systems.

Strategies:

  • Train new staff in the ILS, the Staff Computer Use Policy, and library systems related to their role. Timeline: ongoing
  • Keep staff trained in all updates to the library’s ILS and conduct refresher training as needed. Timeline: ongoing
  • Evaluate staff skills, knowledge and application as part of the annual performance review. Timeline: ongoing
  • Maintain and develop print and online tutorials for technology-related applications as needed. Timeline: ongoing
  • Allow staff work time to access and practice on various computer applications and skills. Timeline: ongoing

 

Goal: Encourage staff to participate in technology-related training and continuing education opportunities.

Strategies:

  • Make staff aware of continuing education training opportunities available through WebJunction, the Indiana State Library, and other state, regional, and national resources or new sources as they become available. Timeline: ongoing
  • Ensure that certified staff meet requirements for technical LEUs. Timeline: ongoing
  • Encourage and provide financial support for staff to seek and attend external resources for technical education, including course work, workshops, continuing education programs, seminars, etc., within budgetary limitations. Timeline: ongoing

 

Goal: Promote an exciting and positive environment within the library that challenges staff to willingly expand their own education and experience with technology.

Strategies:

  • Encourage staff feedback and keep all channels of communication open. Timeline: ongoing
  • Purchase materials that will assist staff in learning. Timeline: ongoing
  • Keep technology as current as possible, within budgetary limitations, to foster increased experience with technology. Timeline: ongoing

VI. Evaluation

The success of the Technology Plan will be evaluated according to the ability to fulfill the goals and strategies within the time frame described.

  1. The Technology Committee will review the progress of the Technology Plan at least annually and report any revisions to Administration and the Information Technology Specialist. Timeline: ongoing and annually
  2. The Technology Committee will meet as needed to reevaluate and review the following, recommending any changes to the Director and/or Board of Trustees for consideration and approval:
    1. Public Computer Use Policy;
    2. Staff Computer Use Policy;
    3. Procedures;
    4. Printing issues;
    5. Consideration of inclusion of new technologies and related services;
    6. Consideration for removal of dated technologies and related services;
    7. Patron feedback;
    8. Staff training;
    9. Public training;
    10. Equipment replacement schedule;
    11. Statistical reports;
    12. Circulation System policies.

    Timeline: ongoing and annually

  3. The Technology Specialist and Technology Committee will recommend changes, additions and deletions to existing technology and services, based upon research of technological advances and developments, use, changing service/program needs, availability of new technology, and patron requests, keeping in consideration funding, physical space limitations, infrastructure, adequate staffing, training, and appropriateness. Timeline: ongoing
  4. The impact of existing and new technologies will be evaluated by:
    1. Computer use statistics;
    2. Circulation statistics;
    3. Patron surveys;
    4. Patron comments or suggestions;
    5. Staff comments or suggestions;
    6. Word of mouth;
    7. Statistics on registration for programs OR Number of people helped;
    8. Library website data (hits, search terms, etc);
    9. POI from social media;
    10. Database/service use statistics;

    Timeline: ongoing

  5. Patrons will be surveyed about their computer use habits and needs and the effectiveness of library technology services. Timeline: 2017 and ongoing

VII. Automation Plan

A. Planning

1. NEEDS, GOALS & OBJECTIVES

Library Needs
Patrons and staff require a modern ILS that includes cataloging, circulation, and OPAC functions, with in-library and remote access. The ILS also needs to have a back-up system to protect library records. The library currently uses the SirsiDynix Symphony ILS and its OPAC eLibrary, which meets and exceeds our current needs.

Goals & Objectives

  • Catalog items according to nationally recognized cataloging standards, currently in transition from AACR2 to RDA. Timeline: ongoing
  • Maintain currency of bibliographic records and holdings information, with additions, deletions, and changes in holdings or locations recorded within one month. Timeline: ongoing
  • Ensure that bibliographic records are compliant with the most current MARC standard. Timeline: ongoing
  • Maintain authority control in bibliographic records, using Library of Congress Subject Headings as the primary resource. Timeline: ongoing
  • Include at least one of the following numbers in bibliographic records: ISBN, LCCN or ISSN. Timeline: ongoing
  • Integrate electronic titles into the library’s catalog. Timeline: 2017-2019
  • Add Mobile Circulation feature to ILS for staff to use when doing public events, such as patron registration drives. Timeline: 2017-2018
  • Further develop the SirsiDynix infrastructure for additional digital collections. Timeline: ongoing
  • Further develop and maintain patron account access through the online catalog. Timeline: 2017 and ongoing

 

2. The library’s collection size is as follows. All titles are in MARC format according to the Dewey Decimal classification.

Books: 80,100
Video Materials: 9,037
Audio Materials: 7,969
Serials Subscriptions: 510
EBooks & EAudio: 2,653
TOTAL: 100,269

3. Collection Management Weeding Schedule

The collection is weeded on an annual basis by each area’s assigned selector, with backup by the Assistant Director. Weeding is conducted according to the Collection Development Policy and is heavily based on the CREW guidelines from ALA.

4. Upgrade Plans

The library currently uses the SirsiDynix Symphony ILS and its OPAC eLibrary. We are planning to remain with this ILS for the immediate future. Planned upgrades include integrating electronic titles into the catalog, adding the Mobile Circulation feature, and investigating additional catalog enhancements. See timeline entries in goals/objective section.

B. Implementation

In 2010, the library migrated to its current ILS (integrated library system), Symphony, and its online catalog, eLibrary. The SirsiDynix Symphony ILS is used by the library to catalog materials according to the nationally recognized cataloging standards of the Dewey Decimal System. It is also used to create and maintain patron records. The OPAC, eLibrary, is used by patrons and staff to view local holdings. The eLibrary catalog also includes enhancements such as read-alikes, series order, and reviews through NoveList Select. Two self-check units are available for patron use and are fully integrated with the ILS. In March of 2016, the library completed migration to remote hosting of the ILS.

Circulation and cataloging clients access the databases using a IP/TCP ether-network. In-house patrons using the OPACs and at-home patrons using the Internet access the online catalog via browsers using HTTPs. Patron account information transmission over the Internet is encrypted via SSL.

C. Maintenance

1. Hardware support

A secondary standalone server handles backup of main library server of website, email domain services and staff files. Now that ILS has been moved offsite, backups of ILS information is handled by our ILS. Hardware support will be provided by the Information Technology Specialist, unless equipment is under warranty, then support will be handled by the warranty entity.

2. Software support

Support for implemented software as well as future software for Library needs will be provided by the Information Technology Specialist, any staff member designated to do so, or support provided by an outside vendor.

3. Network support

Network support is handled by the Information Technology Specialist, or if needed an outside consultant.

Currently Have/Need Required by Standard Identified by Community Needs Indiana Public Library Standards Compliance Level
Basic Enhanced Exceptional Improve
Telecomm. Services
38 telephone handsets, 30 telephone lines Telephone listed in library’s name X
Outgoing message after hours; listing of hours in automated message; voicemail on phones Voice mail or other method to inform public of hours X
Have an Internet connection speed of at least 25 mbps Internet connection speed of at least 1.5 mbps X
Public pay phone X
Hardware
2 public photocopiers ($0.15 per b/w copy); 3 staff copiers Copier X
Public fax machine ($3.00 first page, $1.00 each additional page) Fax machine X
Public computer lab with 15 workstations with Internet and 4 additional workstations in Indiana Room. TOTAL 19 Class B library serving 35,339 X
Wi-Fi available within the library Class B library X
3 public scanners X
3 Children’s AWE early learning computers Children’s service X
19 staff workstations with Internet, printer access, Windows operating system and Microsoft Office software 1 staff computer with office software and operating systems, connected to the Internet and a printer X
8 OPAC computers Online public access catalog X
3 microfilm machines connected to 2 microfilm printers X NA
Email/web/staff server—3 Mhz quad NA
Obituary index server—1.5 Mhz NA
2 public printers (1 b&w, 1 color); 42 staff printers X NA
Video projector in meeting room X NA
Software
SirsiDynix Symphony integrated library system with e-Library OPAC on website Integrated library system with an OPAC on website X
INSPIRE databases listed on website Electronic resources provided by the state of Indiana X
6 other commercial online databases Adult, youth, and children’s reference service X
Obituary index (produced in-house) Adult reference service X
Children’s early learning software Children’s service X
Promotion/marketing online service (LibraryAware) NA
Other Services
Website with hours of operation, physical address, map, phone number, and email address Website with hours of operation, physical address, map, phone number, and email address X
Public service policies on website Public service policies on website X
Calendar of events and programs on website, updated monthly Calendar of events and programs on website, updated at least monthly X
EQUIPMENT CURRENT FUTURE REPLACE IN:
COMPUTERS
2600+ mhz (Staff) 22 16 2017 and ongoing
3000 mhz (Staff) 8 14 2017 and ongoing
1400+ mhz (Public) 19 19 2018
400+ mhz (OPACS only) 8 8 2017
TOTAL: 57 57
TABLETS 4 15 As needed
PRINTERS
Laserjets 32 32 As needed
Networked Laserjets 2 2 2017-2018
Color Special 3 3 As needed
TOTAL: 37 37
SERVERS
Spare : 2200 mhz – Old Main SIRSI 1 1 N/A
3 Mhz Quad - Mail/Web/Staff 1 1 N/A
Spare 1800 mhz – Old, OLD SIRSI 1 1 N/A
1.5 MHz - Obit 1 1 2017 or as needed
LINE PRINTERS
Dot Matrix (Notices, Cataloging) 4 4 2017-2018
SCANNERS 3 3 As needed
VIDEO PROJECTORS 3 1 If needed
MICROFORM SCANNER-PRINTERS 3 3 As needed
COPIERS
Black & White 5 5 2017
Color 1 1 2019
TYPEWRITERS 3 3 As needed
PUBLICITY
Risograph 1 0 N/A
Folding Machine 1 1 N/A
MAILING CENTER
Postage Machine & Meter 1 1 Per USPS requirements
100 Pound Scale with Interface 1 1 w/ Meter
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Telephone Devices 38 38 As needed
Telephone Lines 30 30* N/A
Fax 4 4 As needed
Cable Internet Connection 1 1 N/A
BUDGET
2017 2018 2019
HARDWARE
Personal Computers (CPUs Only) $10,000.00 $20,000.00 $12,000.00 Operating
Printers $3,000.00 $4,000.00 $5,000.00 Operating
Monitors $3,000.00 $4,000.00 $5,000.00 Operating
TOTAL: $16,000.00 $28,000.00 $22,000.00
SOFTWARE
Server Updates $1,000.00 $2,000.00 $3,000.00 Operating
Applications $4,000.00 $5,000.00 $6,000.00 Operating
TOTAL: $5,000.00 $7,000.00 $9,000.00
MAINTENANCE/LICENSING
SirsiDynix $42,000.00 $42,000.00 $42,000.00 Operating
OCLC $43.200.00 $44,000.00 $45,000.00 Operating
Telephone $15,500.00 $16,000.00 $17,000.00 USF
General $4,000.00 $5,000.00 $6,000.00 Operating
TOTAL: $104,700.00 $107,000.00 $110,000.00
GRAND TOTAL: $125,700.00 $142,000.00 $141,000.00

BUDGET OVERVIEW

An annual review of the budget will be done to determine spending trends for all areas under this plan.

Many items in the budget, especially those on the equipment replacement schedule, are planned for and included annually.  Special needs are identified each year and built into the subsequent year’s budget.  Universal Service Funds will continue to be sought for telecommunication discounts until the discontinuation of this type of service funding.  Additional funding sources, such as community enrichment grants, state and federal grants, and donations will be sought to offset the costs of digitization projects.

Activity 2017 2018 2019
Implement remote web hosting service X
Launch new website with CMS X
Create web/social media style guidelines X
Conduct usability testing X
WordPress training for staff members X
Add Mobile Circulation feature to ILS X
Expand and publicize one-on-one computer assistance program X X X
Enhance catalog features X
Integrate eBooks/eAudiobooks into catalog X
Replace microfilm reader printers X
Investigate screen filters/other ideas to expand patron privacy X X
Develop social media plan X
Develop social media content calendar X
Process improvement for sharing social media content X
Offer Wi-Fi printing X X
Research/implement online component for Summer Reading Program X X
Research and implement e-magazines X X
Identify options for newspaper digitization X X
Update social media plan X
Develop social media content calendar X
Develop SirsiDynix infrastructure for additional digital collections X X
Work with Uptown Arts organizations to create History Walk X X
Investigate and create online library for digitized historical collections X X X
Update social media plan X
Develop social media content calendar X
Develop SirsiDynix infrastructure for additional digital collections X
Investigate parent/child computer stations X

Ongoing activities

Monitor electrical systems X X X
Monitor data cabling X X X
Monitor Wi-Fi for best connectivity X X X
Inspect hardware X X X
Review Computer Lab use and workstation needs X X X
Evaluate ways to make technology more accessible for individuals with disabilities X X X
Review Internet service X X X
Evaluate online databases and implement/renew X X X
Catalog materials according to nationally recognized cataloging standards X X X
Maintain currency of bibliographic records and holdings information X X X
Maintain accessible and consistent bibliographic databases X X X
Investigate adding new formats (streaming audio/video, music downloads, e-magazines) X X X
Maintain website to validation/accessibility standards X X X
Create videos for website, YouTube, and social media X X X
Maintain website inventory X X X
Update website links and revise web pages X X X
Create promotional materials for electronic resources X X X
Solicit email addresses and contact information for promotions database X X X
Engage community members on social media channels X X X
Include announcements about electronic resources in newspaper, radio appearances X X X
Conduct offsite school/youth program visits and instructional sessions X X X
Research and organize digitized historical images X X X
Develop community partnerships with local historical organizations and nonprofits X X X
Seek funding to support digital library of historical materials X X X
Investigate social media outlets to identify those to use X X X
Review literature for best practices for social media, web development, and other technology topics X X X
Create print/electronic tutorials on technology topics X X X
Develop video training tutorials for use on website and local cable access channel X X X
Purchase print guides on technology topics for circulating and in-house collections X X X
Replace outdated computers and peripherals X X X
Upgrade and standardize staff software X X X
Review staff work environment and implement safety/ergonomic solutions X X X
Provide staff training on library technology topics X X X
Purchase eBooks/eAudiobooks X X X
Index obituaries from Michigan City News Dispatch for online obituary index X X X
Train new staff in ILS X X X
Conduct staff training for ILS updates X X X
Evaluate technological competencies of staff members in performance reviews X X X
Allow staff work time for technology training and practice X X X
Encourage staff participation in online webinars, workshops and conferences, and provide financial support as budget allows X X X
Ensure certified staff meet requirements for technical LEUs X X X
Complete technology inventory X X X
Apply for e-rate funding X X X
Investigate funding resources X X X
Develop video training tutorials for use on website and local cable access channel X X X
Purchase print guides on technology topics for circulating and in-house collections X X X
Replace outdated computers and peripherals X X X
Upgrade and standardize staff software X X X
Review staff work environment and implement safety/ergonomic solutions X X X
Provide staff training on library technology topics X X X
Purchase eBooks/eAudiobooks X X X
Index obituaries from Michigan City News Dispatch for online obituary index X X X
Train new staff in ILS X X X
Conduct staff training for ILS updates X X X
Evaluate technological competencies of staff members in performance reviews X X X
Allow staff work time for technology training and practice X X X
Encourage staff participation in online webinars, workshops and conferences, and provide financial support as budget allows X X X
Ensure certified staff meet requirements for technical LEUs X X X
Complete technology inventory X X X
Apply for e-rate funding X X X
Investigate funding resources X X X
Evaluate technological competencies of staff members in performance reviews X X X
Allow staff work time for technology training and practice X X X
Encourage staff participation in online webinars, workshops and conferences, and provide financial support as budget allows X X X
Ensure certified staff meet requirements for technical LEUs X X X
Complete technology inventory X X X
Apply for e-rate funding X X X
Investigate funding resources X X X
Back To Top
Search


Looking for an obituary? Go to our genealogy page to search.