Library Technology Trends: Streaming Services

       One of the latest technology trends in libraries is streaming services.  Hoopla is a streaming service that partners with libraries to offer movies, television, audio books, and music for free to library patrons (hoopla, 2014). Hoopla is offered only through libraries. A patron cannot sign-up unless there library offers the program.  Through the partnership, library patrons have access to movies and TV series for three days, music for seven days, and audio books for 21 days (hoopla, 2014). The technical requirements are i-pad, i-phone, browser, or android device.  A patron must be connected to the internet because it is a streaming service.  According to the help section of hoopla’s website, a patron must also download the app to access the service also.  

         The emerging technology of downloading and streaming service is not new in technology.  Companies such as Netflix and Amazon have thriving streaming services.  This is the first I have heard for libraries.  I think it is great service because it is offering patrons a new service that can be accessed 24/7 as long as a patron has a valid library card.  It also possible to allow a patron to access material that the library may not have in a format that the patron can use.  For example, a patron may be looking for the film To Kill a Mockingbird.  You know your local library has a copy, but they have a VHS copy.  Well, I know I no longer own a VHS, so that material is not valid for my use.  I would have to find the film somewhere else.  With a service like hoopla, a patron can at least have the option of streaming the movie or even coming into the library and watching the film, streaming it on a library computer.

         Hoopla is meeting a need for library patrons that may not traditional want to visit their local library and browse the shelf.  It also meets the need for those who also may not be able to visit the library during the library buildings open hours.  According to the Pew Research Internet Project, libraries have to add more technology in different formats to meet the needs of patrons (Zickuhr, Purcell., & Rainie, 2014).  As I looked into it, none of the libraries in my area offer hoopla yet, but I think as the popularity grows and more patrons learn about the service, it will be something that will become more available. Technology is evolving and becoming more mobile, so a service like Hoopla will become increasing popular.  

hoopla. (2014). hoopla. hoopla. Retrieved April 18, 2014, from
https://www.hoopladigital.com/home;jsessionid=427410C95B072290717B09FAD9588815

hoopla. (2014). hoopla. hoopla Help. Retrieved April 18, 2014, from
      https://www.hoopladigital.com/support 

Zickuhr, K., Purcell, K., & Rainie, L. (2014, March 13). Library Engagement
     Typology. Pew Research Centers Internet American Life Project RSS.
     Retrieved April 18, 2014, from
     http://www.pewinternet.org/2014/03/13/library-engagement-typology/ 

Electronic Resources: E-books

Electronic resources have become more important to libraries. Electronic resources provide 24 hours access to library books and journal materials.  A current trend is offering e-books at your local library. Libraries offer e-books through services such as 3M and OverDrive.  Polanka (2012) writes that the Chief Officers of State Library Agencies believe that e-books will be the preferred reading tool of the future (p 42).   Due to this prediction it is good for libraries to understand ebook lending.

E-book lending offers 24 hour access to e-books through sites like OverDrive that can be downloaded to the OverDrive applications, or transferred and downloaded to a computer.  Downloading e-books is very convenient and can be easy once a patron understands the process.  Library patrons must be signed on with a user name, which is usually a library card number, and a password that they can remember.  This information is unique for each patron and identifies the users.  The Patron Driven Access (PDA) must be used in this situation so that only those that are allowed to have access have it. 

Convenience is a pro for downloadable e-books.  A con would be the cost of providing electronic resources.  Roncevic (2013) states that many of the publishers still impose strict lending periods such as Harper Collins 26 check outs and Random House’s e-book markup on the price, in some cases 300% (p 8-9).   With lending periods short, libraries must purchase multiple lending rights.  Or the price is marked up more than what is offered at consumer prices.

As technology advances and e-reading becomes more popular, it is a good thing that libraries are already on top of electronic resources.  Below is an overview of how to download e-books to devices.

References

Polanka, S. (2013). Ebook access: business models for subscription services. Online Searcher,
            37(2), 65-67.

Roncevic, M. (2013). Criteria for purchasing e-book platforms. Library Technology Reports,
            49(3), 9-13.

Software, Peripheral Devices, and Network

Library Software

Microsoft Office 2010	Microsoft Office Suite includes Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, and Access.  These tools can create documents, charts, flyers, presentations, and databases.
Adobe Reader X	Adobe Reader is used to read PDF files. You can view files and print documents that you create or download.
Java	Java allows computer applications and programs such as games to viewing 3D images.  It is a programming language and computing platform first released by Sun Microsystems in 1995 (Oracle, 2014)
Internet Explorer	A browser created by Microsoft to browse and search the web.
Windows Media Player	Windows Media Player is a music player that can also store music and audio files.

            My local library computer software on the public computers is bare.  The computers have the entire Microsoft Office 2010 software, but as far as other programs it does not offer any accessories except for note pad and calculator.   When I tried to open other program folders, they were empty.  I was told that outside of the software already put on the computers that was all, unless approved by the library board.  I did take an opportunity to check out the Young Adult computers and the Children’s room computers.  The Children’s computers were preloaded with educational games and books.  The Young Adult computers were loaded with Microsoft Office, but no access the web outside of approved reference resources and the library catalog.

            I do understand why the library keeps the software simple and basic.  No need to clutter the library computers with less useful software or expensive software.  The library has the basic needs covered: check e-mail, create professional presentations and documents, and research or surf. I could not think of any software that I would add to enhance the computers or services.   It covered the basics. At the library I work at.  I have had patrons ask for professional software like Adobe Creative.  We are a midsized public library, and we don’t get too many students or professionals asking for that type of software.   I have been on a college campus that offers different software for different professional needs, and in a community like that I see a need for additional software.

 I do wish that more public libraries in my area could offer more software such as the full Adobe line of software, and suggestions like movie making software.  I think it would beef up the software and it would be a place the community would consider to go for more of their needs.  Maybe someday in the future they can get the funding to do things like this.  I think it would be a benefit to extend learning and creative resources to all.  I also see a need for services for the hearing impaired or blind patrons. There are audio books and programs from Georgia Public Library System (GPLS) such as GLASS for anyone who has trouble reading print.  Software that they could add for the blind would be screen reading software. 

Peripheral Devices

Mouse	The mouse is an input device that allows the user to navigate and click on information.  The mouse cost between $10- $50, depending on what an individual is looking for.  The mouse is very conforming to the hand and uses a left and right click button, and sometimes there is a scroll button to help navigate up and down pages.
Printer	Printer is an output device.  A user can input information or retrieve information on the computer, and then print the material.  The library computer is able to print in color or black and white.  Printers can cost anywhere from fifty to thousands of dollars.  The library has a printer that is also a photo copier and scanner also, but the scanner is not used by the public. The library has the printer because patrons need to print information.
Keyboard	The keyboard is an input device. The keyboard is used to input words and numbers, and symbols.  The cost of a key board is between $10- $100.  The library is not paying $100 for a keyboard, but depending on what a user is looking for the cost is very different. The library includes the keyboard because it is a way to input data into the computer.
CD-Rom/DVD Drive	CD-Rom is an input device. You can insert CD’s or DVD’s to listen or watch.  Unfortunately on the library computers does not have a CD-R Drive, so you cannot save information to the computers, but you can view information from the disks.  The cost of CD-Rom drive can cost between $50 -$500 depending on what you need it for. The library has CD-Rom drives because patrons may have information saved to them that they need to retrieve. They would not be able to save information it if they brought one in, but they can view it.  Also, the DVD drive can allow someone to watch DVD’s or view information from the DVD.
Monitor	The monitor is an output device.  It is vital part of the computer because it allows you to view the information on the computer.  Most new monitors are LCD or LED. The cost is $100-$5000.

If I could add anything to the libraries peripheral devices it would be some better computer monitors.  The slicker LCD or LED monitors would have a lot of space, and a little better for the eyes.  I would add a scanner. The copier/printer has a scanner but not for public use.  Scanning and saving documents has many uses for everyday use.

Internet Service Providers

Company	Connection	Equipment	Fees
Comcast-XFINITY	Cable 3Mb download speed (Economy package)	Cd-Rom, Ethernet connection, Computer/Laptop, and modem (rent from Comcast).	$26.99 + modem rental + taxes and fees
AT&T U-Verse	DSL 3Mb downstream (Pro Package)	Ethernet connection, computer/laptop, modem.	$29.99 + modem rental ($7monthly or onetime fee $100) + taxes and fees
DISH	Satellite 5Mb download speed	Satellite Dish, computer/laptop, modem, router	$49.99+ $10 monthly equipment fee + taxes and fees

Conclusion

Comcast and AT&T offer similar services, but Comcast is a little cheaper.  Comcast offers the same speeds as AT&T.  The equipment lease is about the same, but AT&T offers a onetime purchase of the equipment. This is a good offer if you know you are not moving for some time, and can say that it would be a good investment to have.  I only based inquires on the smallest, cheapest packages, for someone who is just interested in having internet connection in their home.

 The most expensive and most limiting provider is DISH. It cannot allow streaming or video game playing due to the slow connect.  It requires a satellite dish to be installed, and if you have DISH TV it is a completely different satellite for DISH NET. You also cannot use it in apartment buildings because the dish has to be facing a particular direction and the signal can be interfered with.

  All three companies charge for set up ranging from $50 to $100.  Comcast offers self instillation, but it is rare that they ever recommend it.  Both AT&T and DISH require that a technician set up the service.  AT&T and Comcast offer wireless internet with the purchase or rental of the modem. DISH net does not offer wireless internet at this time, although you can purchase a wireless package for $99 and have it installed by a technician.  If you were to purchase just the basic service, it is not option for wireless.

It is very complicated choosing the best ISP for your individual needs.  Before signing up, read all of the fine print.  All three providers have introductory rates or bundle rates, and DISH has a contract of 24 months.  There are fines and penalties if you break that contract. It is good to know what you are getting into before rather than later.  Choosing the correct internet speed for your needs is also important.  If your household is heavy gamers or streamers, then a higher download speed is needed to fulfill that need. If you only check your e-mail and social media accounts, then a slower download speed may be suitable. 

References

Oracle. (2014). What is java technology and why do i need it?. Retrieved from
                http://www.java.com/en/download/faq/whatis_java.xml

Printing of the future... 3D Printing

One of the emerging technologies in the library world is 3D printing.  According to writer Marcia Goodrich, 3D printing is makes things by laying down sub-millimeter-thin layers of plastic one after another in a specific pattern (p 9).  According to Amazon.com you can purchase and assemble a 3D printer for $350.00 (http://www.amazon.com/Printrbot-Simple-Printer-Filament-1-75mm/dp/B00HLSR0O8/ref=sr_1_135?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1398891791&sr=1-135&keywords=3d+printer+kit ).

An industrial sized 3D printer by 3D Systems is $1,300. A 3D printer can produce full-scale, physical prototypes that let designers and engineers assess how new parts and devices will look, feel, assemble, and behave (Brown, 2014, p 28). As 3D printers are becoming more affordable, libraries are adding them to their technology collection. According to author Steve Pryor, “ … the “maker” and open-source movements have taken on the concept and provided plans and software for hobbyists to build their own 3D printers inexpensively with readily available parts (p 1-2).

As libraries are offering their patrons 3D printing, people are able to make their own designs and parts.  Users can be charged to use the printer and the materials.   The materials used are ABS plastics, PLA, polyamide (nylon), glass filled polyamide, sterolithographary materials, silver, titanium, wax, photopolymers, and polycarbonate (www.3ders.org, 2014, sec 13).  A library does not have to use the more expensive material. The Lovejoy Library in Illinois charges $1.00 per hour of printing, and the user has to come up with their own designs (Pryor, 2014, p 5).

Offering 3D printing services at the library is the future for libraries to offer not only information but also resources. The prediction for 3D printers is that by 2016 the average cost of an industrial 3D printer will be a little over $5000 (Brown, 2014, p 29).  Library users by 2016 will be very familiar with 3D printing in their community library.  They will be able make and design in 3D.

References

Brown, A. S. (2014). BY THE NUMBERS: A BIG FORECAST FOR 3-D PRINTERS.
                Mechanical Engineering, 136(2), 28-29.

Goodrich, M. (2014). 3D Revolution. Research (Michigan Technological University), 8-11.

Pryor, S. (2014) Implementing a 3D Printing Service in an Academic Library, Journal of                       Library Administration, 54:1, 1-10, DOI: 10.1080/01930826.2014.893110

www.3ders.org. (2014, ). 3ders.org from http://www.3ders.org/3d-printing-basics.html 

Electronic Resources at my Library

As I read about electronic resources and databases that libraries subscribe to, I began to think about having unlimited access to resources at all times without being in a library.  Electronic resources are a service that is provided by libraries for patrons to use in or outside of libraries.  Being a student that lives far from my campus, I think about how I access all of my material, and have 24/7 access to material through the VSU library. Valdosta State subscribes to many electronic resources, especially databases. 

Through Valdosta I have access to GALIELO. GALIELO is the GeorgiA LIbrary LEarning Online (GALILEO, 2014).  Libraries and education institutions have access to GALILEO, which include access to over 100 databases indexing thousands of periodicals and scholarly journals. Over 10,000 journal titles are provided in full-text. Other resources include encyclopedias, business directories, and government publications (GALILEO, 2014). On top of what Valdosta offers, Valdosta also subscribes to more journals and databases that can only be accessed by logging into my VSU Any Where Access.

As I thought about having anywhere access through my university, I thought about the access at my local library.  My local library has the same GALIELO access, but with fewer databases than VSU, but they still have the same quality journal articles and resources that may be hard to find or purchase individual.  I do not have anywhere access, but when I go into the library I can show my library card and get a pass code that allows me to enter the database. 

With electronic resources for libraries, the access for patrons is ideal.  GALILEO works with publishers and databases such as EBSCO and ProQuest, but the cost is substantial. Libraries do have to pay subscription cost for having access to the journals and databases they purchase.  It can get costly when adding e-books and purchasing access to journals.  Libraries are providing a service for patrons even as the cost have risen over the years.  GALILEO is a great resource that is funded through education in the state of Georgia. Overall, electronic resources is vital to libraries because the accessing these resources 24/7.  

References

GALILEO. (2014). About the Initiative. Retrieved from GALILEO: An Iniitiative of the University of Georgia: http://about.galileo.usg.edu/

RSSing: Building my Blog Feeds

       Given the task of building my RSS feed for my blog, I thought this would be an easy task. After I started researching and finding feeds for my blog my view point changed. I was familiar with RSS feeds and Podcast before this project, but keeping up with them or using them has been challenging. I recently began using Feedly to help me keep up with some of the library and technology blogs that I have been interested in following.  Reading them has been another case. 

       Building my RSS feed for my blog was challenging at first.  I became frustrated with some of the instruction on Google’s website.

     It took a few times to get this to work due to my misunderstanding of the instructions.  Once I understood the instructions, I was able to add other blogs and podcast I was following to my page. This led me to really look at my Blogger page, and figure out the layout and design I wanted. I was able to play around with my page and get a clear picture of what I wanted it to look like.  It was much easier to add other blogs and podcast I enjoyed.   

             

     

Some good things to think about when you are adding the RSS feed to your blogger site using Google:

•     Make sure you read all the instructions first
•     Don’t get frustrated, it’s okay to mess up (You can always undo it)