WebJunction

Here are the basic things to consider when planning to install or upgrade your Internet access.

If you do not have Internet access:

1. What tasks could you do using the Web that you can't do now?

2. Do you currently have an internal library e-mail system? If so, is it adequate, or do you need to e-mail people outside your library as well?

3. Who among your staff needs to do research on the Web as part of their job?

4. What is your budget for establishing a connection to the Internet? Have you explored fundraising options?

5. Do you need all your computers to connect to the Internet, or just one or two? Do you currently have a local area network (LAN) that you could connect? Do you have plans to install one?

6. How important is your speed of access to the Internet?

7. How many users do you think will be sharing an Internet connection at once?

8. How many phone lines do you have in your library? Are any of these lines used for multiple purposes (e.g., for both fax and data)?

9. What services do you need from an Internet Service Provider (ISP)? For example, do you need Web hosting? How many e-mail accounts do you need?

10. What types of Internet Service Providers serve your region? What types of Internet connections are available?

11. How much are you prepared to pay your ISP on a monthly basis?

12. How many hours a day do you expect you and your staff to be on the Internet?

If you already have Internet access:

1. Are all staff computers connected to the Internet? If not, do all staff members need a connection?

2. Are individual computers connected, or a whole network?

3. What is your method of connection? For example, do you use DSL, a T1 line, ISDN, or another method?

4. If you use a modem (dial-up connection), is it external or internal? What is its speed? (For example, 14.4, 28.8, 56K or cable.)

5. Is your speed of connection adequate for the Web research you need to do?

6. What ISP are you registered with? What is your average monthly cost?

7. Do you feel your service is adequate for the price you are paying?

8. What services do you need that your ISP does not currently provide?