This tip sheet has been developed to assist libraries with the Minimum Standards for Rhode Island Public Libraries.

Standard 48: The library building supports current and emerging telecommunications and electronic information technologies.

This tip sheet was developed to provide information about the way your facility can comply with Standard 48. There are several options to fulfill the objective of supporting telecommunications and electronic information technologies. Although new technologies are always emerging, the tip sheet focuses on the those most commonly used at present.

Internet access is provided in one or more ways:

• The library has arrangements with a company or other organization (e.g., Verizon, OSHEAN) which provides access to the Internet. An Internet Access Provider (IAP) purchases an Internet link from another company that has a direct link to the Internet and resells portions of that bandwidth to the general public. OSL can facilitate Internet access for your library.
  
  OR >
• The library has arrangements with a company or other organization (e.g., IDS, Cox Communications) called an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that provides direct access to, or presence on, the Internet. Most ISPs are also IAPs; extra services include help with design, creation and administration of World-Wide Web sites, training, and administration of intranets.
  
  AND >
  
• Building has one or more phone lines dedicated to use of a modem for access to the Internet, or equivalent.
  
  AND/OR >
• A cable modem or DSL connection from an ISP or equivalent.
  
  AND/OR>
• The library building has one or more T1or T3 data lines for access to the Internet or equivalent. These are ISDN lines, which are a set of communications standards allowing a single wire or optical fiber to carry voice, digital network services and video.

Computer workstations:

• The library building has adequate physical space to set up at least one computer workstation for patron use.

New construction or building renovations:

• When planning for new construction or renovations of existing structures, include additions or upgrades to wiring that will support current and emerging telecommunications technology. Incorporating the appropriate wiring during construction, even if you will not implement the technology immediately, is more cost effective than adding wiring at a later date.
  
  The following article can help with your planning:
  
  Newman, Kim and Lynn Lorch Metz. "Design for the management of power and communication systems based on conversations with Jay E. Frank, FAIA, and others." Library Hi Tech>, vol. 17, no. 4, 1999. p. 339-348.

The article is available from the Office of Library and Information Services' Library.

For more information contact:

• Donna Longo DiMichele at OLIS 222-1759; email DonnaDM@olis.ri.gov
• Peter Bennett at OSL