By Murtaza Ashiq et al - ResearchGate
A comprehensive chapter providing a broad look at all aspects of library technology infrastructure, from hardware to future trends.
What's Covered:
Tip: Pay special attention to sections on integration (making disparate systems work together) and future trends to ensure your infrastructure is future-proof.
Extreme Networks Blog
Practical blog focusing on modern library connectivity needs including high-density WiFi, multilingual systems, and bridging the digital divide.
Key Topics:
Tip: Use this resource when planning network upgrades. Consider how many devices need simultaneous connections and plan WiFi capacity accordingly.
Library Technology Guides
Reflective article addressing how many libraries have "assemblages" of tech components that aren't well integrated, highlighting the need for aligning infrastructure with library goals.
Why It Matters:
Tip: Before making infrastructure decisions, ask: "Does this align with our library's strategic goals?" Avoid tech for tech's sake.
Multiple Resources Available
ITIL is a set of best practices for IT service management that can be adapted for library environments. It provides frameworks for managing technology services effectively.
Key ITIL Concepts for Libraries:
Why This Matters:
Technology infrastructure isn't just "buy the right router and servers" — you also need processes for change management, incident response, and service delivery to manage infrastructure effectively.
Tip: Consider how your library aligns with service management best practices. Have you defined who handles network outages? How are backups tested? How do staff report issues? Using ITIL (or an adapted version) helps formalize these processes.
Academic Studies on Success Factors
Research examining the advantages, challenges, and success factors for implementing ITIL in organizations, including critical success factors like senior management support and clear metrics.
Critical Success Factors:
Research Insight: Organizations that implement ITIL incrementally and with strong management support see better adoption rates and outcomes than those attempting full-scale immediate deployment.
ITIL vs. CMMI, COBIT, ISO Standards
Research comparing multiple IT management frameworks (CMMI, COBIT, ISO) in relation to ITIL, helping you choose the right framework or combination for your library.
Framework Options:
Tip: Most libraries benefit from adopting select ITIL practices rather than full certification. Focus on incident management, change control, and asset management first.
American Library Association
ALA guidance on how libraries must provide digital access (computers, internet, creation tools) in ways that respect equity, privacy, and intellectual freedom.
Core Principles:
Why This Matters:
Infrastructure isn't just "internal tech" — it's how patrons and staff actually use it. Ensuring equity, accessibility, and good user experience is fundamental to library service.
Tip: When designing or upgrading infrastructure, include user-centric requirements: reliable WiFi everywhere, accessible devices/assistive tech, privacy/security policies, and tools for patron creation and learning.
Library Journal
Article emphasizing how the right digital tools (interfaces, search systems, devices) make a significant difference in patron access and satisfaction.
Critical Access Components:
Key Insight: The best infrastructure in the world doesn't help patrons if they can't easily use it. User experience should drive your technology decisions.
Comprehensive Library Technology Resource
A comprehensive resource hub featuring databases, documents, news, and analysis for library technology systems including ILS, discovery layers, and network infrastructure. Excellent for benchmarking and research.
What You'll Find:
Tip: Check LTG for case studies of libraries similar to yours in size and type. Use their system profiles to compare hardware/network specifications, software stacks, and user access metrics for benchmarking.
Academic Library Research - arXiv
Research examining authentication, usability, and multilingual support in library login portals and digital gateways — useful if your infrastructure includes patron portals.
Key Design Considerations:
Tip: If you're implementing or redesigning a patron portal, prioritize simple authentication flows and mobile usability. Patrons abandon complex login processes.
AI, IoT, and Future Infrastructure
Multiple resources covering emerging technologies that will shape library infrastructure, including artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, voice recognition, and big data analytics.
Technologies to Watch:
Why This Matters:
If you only plan for "today's" tech, you risk being behind in a few years. Knowing trends lets you build a more adaptive infrastructure.
Tip: In your infrastructure plan, include a "phase 2/3" section for emerging tech. Prepare wiring/power for future IoT sensors, plan user training for new digital tools, and consider modular upgrades for your network.
Addressing Equity Through Infrastructure
Resources addressing the digital divide and broader connectivity issues that will become increasingly important as libraries serve as community technology hubs.
Infrastructure Considerations:
Community Impact: Libraries are increasingly recognized as critical digital equity providers. Plan infrastructure that extends beyond your walls to serve the broader community.
Six Steps to Better Library IT Infrastructure
Map out your existing technology landscape:
Based on your user population (patrons and staff), determine what services you need:
Adopt service management processes to operate infrastructure effectively:
Ensure your infrastructure serves all users:
Build adaptability into your infrastructure:
Learn from similar institutions:
Pro Tip: Don't try to implement everything at once. Start with a thorough audit, define clear requirements, then implement in phases. Quick wins (like improved WiFi) build momentum for larger projects.
Infrastructure planning combines:
Use these resources together to build infrastructure that serves your community's needs today while preparing for tomorrow's opportunities.