A public library IT strategy for the millennium

Argues that UK public libraries need to give priority to information technology (IT) if they are to continue as the main point of access for the general public seeking information. Outlines the production of an IT strategy document for Manchester Public Libraries, UK, which sets out the main features of an ideal public library IT strategy, including: a review of external influences needing to be taken into account when formulating a strategy; an IT audit to establish the primary aims of the strategy and the interlocking influences of different parts of the IT systems; an assessment of current strengths and weaknesses of the library service as a starting point for planning new developments; a plan for the training of library staff; consideration of joint projects between existing library co-operatives assisted by national initiatives designed to further the role of public libraries in the information superhighway. Considers some of the developments considered by Manchester's IT strategy, such as self issuing terminals at heavily used issuing points, provision of online public access catalogues (OPACs) at all service points; retrospective conversion of library catalogues; and access to the Internet and World Wide Web (WWW). Notes how these elements of the IT strategy were embodied in a coherent document for wider dissemination.