Navigating the Future of Libraries: A Rhode Map

	Navigating the Future of Libraries: A Rhode Map Steering Committee

Home Steering Committee Legislative Commission Events Working Groups Supporters Resources Contacts Site Index	One Catalog Working Group Purpose: The One Catalog Working Group supports the work of the LibFutures Steering Committee by recommending a plan to make the resources of all Rhode Island libraries available to all citizens through the development of a Rhode Island statewide catalog that includes a seamless interface to enable patron-initiated borrowing of materials from all member libraries. Charge: The One Catalog Working Group will develop an action plan for the implementation of a Rhode Island statewide catalog. The action plan will include any appropriate legislative recommendations for the Rhode Island Library Commission. Activities/Inputs: • Provide an environmental scan of LORI libraries and existing library networks in the state to determine automated library systems currently in place • Provide an environmental scan of other states that have implemented statewide library catalogs • Investigate current library technology products available to create a Rhode Island Library Catalog • Communicate on-going findings to LibFutures Steering Committee and the Rhode Island library community; post agenda, meeting highlights, and recommendations to appropriate listservs and websites Output: • Recommendation of a project plan (and suggested timetable) for the implementation of a Rhode Island statewide catalog • Identification of costs involved and possible sources of funding • Recommendation of a governance structure for the Rhode Island statewide catalog. • A set of recommendations to be used by the LibFutures Steering Committee and the Rhode Island Library Commission to gain civic and legislative support for the project Outcomes: • The Rhode Island Library Commission will have a comprehensive body of information upon which to make an informed recommendation for a Rhode Island Library Catalog. Membership Criteria: ability and willingness to address issues from a state-wide perspective; knowledge of the diverse information needs and information seeking behaviors of the residents of the state; familiarity or willingness to learn about the issues pertaining to statewide databases; familiarity with developing budget & funding models; open-minded and ability to see the “big picture”; and willingness to devote time and energy to the work of the group. Contact Information: Kathleen Boyd Director of Library Services Salve Regina University Newport, RI 02840 boydk@salve.edu 401-341-2374

updated: 4/26/06 contact webmaster