Arroyo Seco Library Network Case Study

Arroyo Seco Library Network Logo
We were the project managers for the Linked Systems Project, a program of the Arroyo Seco Library Network of Pasadena, CA. This project involved the management of a system link the catalogs of 20 local library systems, integrating the resulting virtual union catalog with an automated interlibrary loan system.

  • Project management and planning: Working with the Steering Committee, we established and maintained the project plan. Created in concert with the primary project vendor, the plan consisted of schedules and milestones. It's purpose is to examine issues and deploy the project in line with our contracts and in the perspective of the underlying consultant reports, as well as consultant and staff recommendations. In general, it also took into consideration the activities categorized below.
  • System administration, monitoring and supervision: We supervised the project's physical plant. We maintained an integrated monitoring station at our headquarters, allowing us to view the status of the servers, the services running on them as well as the network in general. The system automatically paged our on-call administrator in the event of a system failure.
  • Vendor relationship: We scheduled regular meetings with vendors to discuss and review the progress and status of the project.
  • Vendor negotiation: We negotiated all prices and relevant contract terms with vendors on behalf of the Project.
  • QOS Monitoring: We tested the system periodically to determine the quality of service.
  • Help desk services: We provided help for system users by telephone and email.
  • Training: Working with the vendor, we developed customized system training for participating ILL staff. We scheduled and conducted training sessions when needed.
  • Steering committee support: We attended all Technology Connection Steering Committee meetings and keep the committee appraised via phone and mailing list of all developments.
  • Preparation of required reports for LSTA/LOC: Quarterly and year end narrative reports were provided to ASLN for submission to the appropriate agencies.
  • Reporting to full and executive councils: We reported at council meetings, when requested
  • Liaison to participating libraries: We maintained contact with staff at participating libraries to help them through the setup and training phases.