I visit libraries and invariably find a dozen or more computers at each,
some devoted to CDs, and some to a limited amount of Internet access. And
I realize that obviously these libraries are paying a substantial amount
in upfront costs and yearly maintentance to provide computer and Internet
access.
And it seems a no brainer to me that public libraries should implement
public wifi spots but when I speak to various librarians they all seem to
feel that it would serve very few people, cost a lot, and compete with
other costs at the library.
I would like to put together a compelling argument for libaries to support
wifi and am asking your help. What arguments would appeal to a public
libary?
I am also trying to understand what the actual costs are. It's certainly
the case that an inexpensive wireless router can be purchased for about
$50.00. But I believe a knowledgeable library IT department might be
concerned with preventing users from using the wireless access to spam or
attack others, from preventing users from hacking the library itself, and
for providing a reasonable upgradea and compatibility path.
Assuming a library already has access to a DSL link, or T-1, what hardware
and software does a library realistically need to support wireless users?
(I would love specific examples and network descriptions.)
Here's my argument in favor of public library support of wifi.
1) Wifi support is cheap: For a small initial investment of about $100,
and almost no annual maintenance, each WAP could easily support
from 8 to 32 users -- probably doubling or quadrupling the current
number of users.
2) Wifi demand is big and increasing: laptops now sell more per
year than desktops -- more and more, significant numbers of
library users will have laptops that have wireless capabilities.
Some schools are even providing students with individual laptops.
3) Wifi helps bridge a digital divide: libraries with limited
internet terminals often constrain users to 15 minute to 1 hour
use. Wifi would enable these users to use the internet as their
needs actually demand and not as the library resources dictate.
4) Wifi will bring more people to the library. Given a choice between
expensive coffeehouse access and free library access, more users
will choose the library. This will enable the libary
to better fulfill its mission of providing resources to the public.
This should be reflected in justification for larger budgets
and even in public sentiment towards funding.
What are other winning arguments? BTW, I have visited a couple of
websites devoted to these issues, but sadly most of these sites don't
provide hardware, software, or networking examples, and most of these
sites were lat changed years ago.
Thanks,
Jerry Asher
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