9453060 Giesecke This planning grant, submitted by the University of Nebraska and the Nebraska Library Commission, addresses two key barriers to implementing an electronic library in Nebraska as identified in two recent statewide conferences: compatibility of network systems and training for end users. The project will also identify content that should be available through the network system. Participants will include key stakeholders and agencies currently involved in electronic delivery of information. The results will be incorporated into ongoing planning efforts. The project goal is to advance planning for the electronic library in the state by providing a structure to identify content, training and software that will enable libraries and information centers throughout the state, including those with special resources in law, medicine, and science education, to contribute to the Nebraska Electronic Library. These issues have not been addressed in the current planning efforts in the state. The objectives of the plan are to: (1) develop recommendations on types of information resources that need to be available electronically for the citizens of Nebraska; (2) identify training needs and develop model training programs to meet citizen needs; (3) test and evaluate options for advancing network access through ATM technology, through use of the z39.50 protocol, and through client/server technology in the medical area, and; (4) develop implementation, assessment, and evaluation strategies for the recommendations and facilitate transferability of these proposals to efforts by other states. This planning process will build on planning activities already in place in Nebraska, and a recently funded Corporation for Public Broadcasting grant to create pilot Community Wide Education and Information services. Methodologies for development of recommendations and for the testing of software/hardware pilots include: (1) electronic survey of library and information centers to solicit input on content and training; (2) a planning retreat of key stakeholders to formulate recommendations based on input from the survey and from site visits to select states working on electronic library issues; (3) testing of user acceptance of software options through user surveys and obtrusive observation, and by evaluating predetermined search question results, and; (4) testing hardware options through time trials and reliability tests. By completing a statewide plan for the content of an electronic library system and for a model training program, the libraries will ensure that future development is compatible with existing efforts and meets the information needs of Nebraskans. The model developed as part of this plan will be applicable to other states.
