A Cookbook for Small and Rural Libraries

Getting Started
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This chapter describes what you'll find in the Cookbook, how to use it, and who was behind it.

Meal Plan 1: Focusing on Your Ingredients for Success
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Learn how to develop a technology plan that keeps your computers humming and your patrons happy.

• Get a handle on technology planning with TechAtlas.

Meal Plan 2: Meat and Potato Public Computers
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Learn practical maintenance techniques, such as how to lock down your computer and keep them virus free!

Meal Plan 3: Volunteers for the Kitchen
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Learn how volunteers can improve the services you provide!

Meal Plan 4: Getting the Technology Training You Need
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Training is more than a class. Learn how to develop a plan to keep your staff on top--and ahead--of your technology.

Meal Plan 5: Future Menus for Library Technology Services
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Take time to consider the future and your library's place in it.

Appendix A: Library Spotlight--Tips & Techniques
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Read real stories from libraries on creative ways to keep computers available to the public.

Recipes for a 5-Star Library

Getting Started
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This chapter describes what you'll find in the Cookbook, how to use it, and who was behind it.

Meal Plan 1: Setting Up a Wireless Network
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Find out what questions you should ask when setting up a wireless network, and the options you should consider.

• Participate in the WebJunction forums on wireless issues

Meal Plan 2: How to Avoid Wireless Networking Problems
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Learn how to fix problems you may encounter with your wireless network.

• Participate in the WebJunction forums on wireless issues or browse all of the great wireless information on WebJunction.

Meal Plan 3: How Much Help Should You Provide Laptop Patrons?
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Learn what to consider once you have wireless up and running, and how other libraries have tackled these issues.

Meal Plan 4: Wireless Acceptable Use Policies
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So you have a wireless network? Now it's time to make sure your policy covers all the bases.

Meal Plan 5: PC Reservation/Time Management Software
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Learn how libraries handle computer sign ups--with or without technology to help them.

Meal Plan 6: Print Management
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Learn how libraries make sure patrons print what they need, and keep reams of print waste to a minimum.

Meal Plan 7: Laptop Checkout Programs
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Low on space? Want to offer teens a computer to use on a beanbag chair? Read on!

• Participate in the WebJunction forum, Circulating Laptop computers

Appendix A: Library Wireless Policies
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Appendix B: Laptop Checkout Procedure from Alachua County Library District (ACLD)
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Appendix C: ACLD Laptop Security Specifications
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Appendix D: ACLD Laptop Checkout Form
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Appendix E: Checklist for a Wireless Acceptable Use Policy
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Appendix F: Wireless Print Instructions from Mendocino County Library
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Appendix G: E-rate Rules for Eligible Products and Services
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Appendix H: Wireless Glossary
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