Internet Costs and Cost Models for Public Libraries has been issued by the U.S. National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS), a fifteen-member, permanent, independent agency of the federal government ch arged to advise the President and the Congress on national and international library information policies and plans. The study reports the findings from an analysis of public library costs involved in use of the Internet, the global interconnected networ k of computer networks.
This NCLIS study results from the Commission's review of the findings reported in Public Libraries and the Internet: Study Results, Policy Issues, and Recommendations published by NCLIS in June 1994. That study found that 20.9% of U.S. public libraries were involved with the Internet. The survey showed the need for developing new instruments to assist librarians and public officials to successfully navigate the challenges of a networked information environment.
Internet Costs and Cost Models for Public Libraries addresses the public library community's need for practical cost information related to Internet connectivity and services. It is intended to support planning, decision-m aking, and investments related to network services. The study describes cost elements, models, and offers worksheets intended to serve as useful guides for communities and public libraries planning Internet connections and services. The report reflects the wide variation in costs and appropriate connectivity models for public libraries depending on the unique situation and available resources of each library and can assist public libraries to plan for the type of connectivity which best meets their comm unity's needs.
Copies of the report are available from federal depository libraries, as well as from the NCLIS office. In addition, the study is accessible via the Internet at the URL
PSRML has obtained print copies of both reports since they may be of interest to health sciences libraries in planning for Internet access. Please contact the RML office to borrow a copy of the studies.