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Technology Services

  1. OSOS Home
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  3. Resources for Libraries
  4. Library Development
  5. Technology
  6. Technology Services

Technology services are available to qualifying libraries. Assistance is provided in: the selection of hardware, software, and services; troubleshooting library networks and computers, and; training staff to better use technical equipment and resources. (Some Projects and Initiatives also offer technology resources.)

E-Rate and the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA)

E-Rate is a federal program that provides libraries with significant discounts on telecommunication services, Internet access charges, and internal wiring costs. Consulting services are offered to assist libraries:

  • Explore options for participation in the federal E-Rate program;
  • Complete paperwork related to E -Rate;
  • Understand how the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) may apply to them;
  • Ensure compliance with CIPA if necessary.

For libraries connected to the K-20 Educational network, free filtering services may be available.

Internet Connectivity: K-20 Educational Network

WSL staff coordinate the connection of public libraries to the K-20 Educational Network, a high speed data network serving educational institutions throughout Washington State.

Technology Consulting

The Washington State Library offers assistance to libraries attempting to make technology related decisions. The goals for this consulting service include assisting libraries to:

  • Evaluate local need and demand for technology;
  • Determine the effectiveness of current technology;
  • Acquire data to make business decisions;
  • Develop long-range technology plans;
  • Decide which technologies best meet their needs.

The technology consultants offer troubleshooting assistance to libraries having problems with computer hardware and software, networking equipment and infrastructure. The Library is especially pleased to offer extensive experience and in-depth knowledge in working with the hardware and software granted by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Hosted Online Services (Web sites, E-mail)

WSL provides free hosting of certain online services to public libraries. Primarily aimed at small and medium size libraries, the goals for these State Library services are to:

  • Help libraries to expand their Internet service offerings;
  • Determine how and when to establish an Internet site, based on operational knowledge of equipment, connections, and technical support that will be needed.

Hosted online services include:

  • Web sites
    • WSL uses Microsoft Internet Information Servers (IIS) servers allowing Active Serve Page (ASP) capability
    • FTP uploading of web page changes
    • WSL offers training and troubleshooting assistance in creating and maintaining web sites.
  • Electronic mail (E-Mail),
    • Our email service offers separate accounts for each staff member, as well as common accounts for the library as a whole.
    • Post Office Protocol3 (POP3) and Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP) compliant
    • Electronic mailing lists can also be established.
  • These services are designed to assist libraries to establish or enhance their current web presence. The Washington State Library’s intent is to augment, not to compete with local Information Service Providers (ISPs).

Contact

Cody Hanson

[email protected]

(360) 480-0315

IMLS

Funded in part by the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).