I spent some time at the Centralia Community Library yesterday, working with Sonny on various things, including getting her library’s equipment inventoried using the free WebJunction technology planning tool, TechAtlas. It was so slick! We ran the automatic inventory tool, which captured information about the hardware (how much RAM? how much hard drive space? what type of processor?) and also about the software versions. We then manually added other details for the computers, including purchase date, service plan parameters, etc…. We also manually entered the fax machine, the hand-held scanner, the printers, and the photocopier. It’s great to have all of that information in one place. As we all know, keeping up with technology can feel overwhelming. I think having an up-to-date inventory is such a powerful step towards feeling on top of things.
If you want to learn more about TechAtlas, there are numerous resources that can help:
- *The TechAtlas for Libraries Blog has current information.
- *A free online course, WebJunction’s TechAtlas for Libraries
- *ME! I would be glad to work with you to take advantage of the TechAtlas tools.
So far, I have seen libraries really taking advantage of the inventory capabilities of TechAtlas. It can, however, also help a library create a technology plan (e-rate compatible). Lots of potential for NEKLS libraries….
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