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How to Manage Infotech in School Library Media Centers

Sustaining library media has never been more important than in the current environment of budget cuts to all areas of education. Information technology involves maintaining all software--from circulation to cataloging to curriculum support--as well as maintaining Internet access and a variety of audio-visual equipment. It must include licensing, maintenance, consumables and the cost of repairs or replacements when the equipment breaks down. Purchases of equipment, software, video and audio materials must support educational goals.

Things You'll Need

  • Library catalog/circulation software
  • Student computers with Internet access
  • Subscriptions to software programs
  • Smart board or projector
  • Audio equipment
  • Paper
  • Ink
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Instructions

    • 1

      Write a budget plan for library information technology. American Library Association publishes forms and checklists to help you with this process. Track one-time purchase items, yearly licensing for software, repair and maintenance on the hardware, and consumable items such as paper and ink.

    • 2

      Create your curriculum while working on your technology plan. Incorporate all the technological items that will be available. If an item does not have a place in your curriculum, question where the money could be better spent.

    • 3

      Keep records of the equipment in your library as well as its age, condition and maintenance. Keep copies of lesson plans and other evidence that it is being used, and the affect on student grades. This provides evidence for need and efficacy to present to budget committees, school boards or used in the process of applying for grants.

    • 4

      Set up a maintenance schedule for simple chores such as dusting under and around computers, running anti-virus checks and performing other software tasks. When buying library materials, look for items that will work with your particular type of equipment and will support your school's curriculum. Set goals for yearly weeding of out-dated software or audio visual materials.

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