Northland Public Library Strategic Plan: CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITIES 2016-2020 FINAL

Priority 6 – Library Technology
Northland will employ state-of-the-art technologies in providing content, services and creative and educational
programs to the community and to ensure library operations are efficient and cost-effective.
Current
Northland Public Library provides access to online reference and electronic resources through its participation
in the Electronic Information Network (EIN), a consortium that provides the shared online catalog and patron
database to the public libraries in Allegheny County as well as internet service, WiFi service, e-mail service and
selected online reference sources. Through the EIN, Northland also provides access to an electronic collection
of e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines, e-music, and e-videos. Northland also participates in P.O.W.E.R. (PA
Online World of Electronic Resources), a collection of various online reference databases. In addition to the
state and county provided databases, Northland subscribes to HeritageQuest, Valueline and the Testing and
Educational Resource Center. Northland has 33 desktop personal computers available for public use with
standard office software, the Internet and online reference sources. Operational functions such as accounting,
payroll, room scheduling, program registration and similar activities are automated. Northland has a wireless
network in place as well as appropriate technology to support training and public meetings. Northland uses
RFID technology as the foundation for efficiently circulating and maintaining the security of materials which
includes self-checkout. Northland has invested in the upgrade of its telephone and security system technology.
Northland recently updated the meeting room technology to meet the programming needs of the library and
outside groups who use the rooms.
Future
Northland needs to maintain its existing level of technology and be prepared for developments of the future.
The website needs to embrace technology such as smart phone applications (apps) which permit it to become a
“virtual” community resource, and continue taking advantage of technology to provide both services and
resources to patrons.
Strategy 6A
Northland will provide content, services and programs using state-of-the-art technologies.
Objectives Responsibility Date Due
Investigate and make recommendations on Director of Library Services
2016
creation of downloadable apps(s)
Director of Marketing & Communications
Investigate costs/benefits/feasibility of
partnering with constituent communities in
creation of Technology Center
Executive Director
IT Support Service
Computer Center Supervisor
Department Managers
Library Authority Board Members
2016
Develop program for partnering with school
districts to support their technology initiatives
Director of Development/Foundation Director
Director of Library Services
Children’s & Young Adult Services
Department Manager
Computer Center Supervisor
2016/2017
Create Technology Council Executive Director 6/30/2016
Create Technology Plan Technology Council 12/31/2016
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