Nassau BOCES School Library System

Description of Service

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The Nassau BOCES School Library System (NBSLS) provides a variety of subscription-based online resources, such as Web-based indexes and encyclopedias, to component school districts. NBSLS will incorporate this service as a component of its Library Automation and Resource Sharing Service. As the aggregating agent, NBSLS can provide the greatest cost savings to libraries, complete with current information from vendors, and standardized training in the effective use of the databases.

Since 1990 NBSLS has provided Internet access to school districts as part of a partnership with Hofstra University. NBSLS trained library media specialists and district administrators to use the Internet as an instructional tool. NBSLS frequently offers training to districts. A significant part of the library automation service includes training in the use of library automation software.

Districts turn to NBSLS for leadership regarding electronic resources. Initially, NBSLS members accessed full-text data through CD-ROM purchases. As the use of the Internet expanded, districts explored the use of online databases. NBSLS held more than four dozen meetings to discuss the implementation of online databases within the school library. During the period 1996 – 99 NBSLS members met to Evaluate online databases. During this time, using Electronic Doorway Library monies and other grant funds, NBSLS provided free access to two electronic databases to 56 school districts. Members ranked the use of these databases as a prime NBSLS service. District members requested that NBSLS become an aggregating agent so that districts could take advantage of economy of scale pricing, NBSLS expertise, and the NBSLS training facilities.

NBSLS support shall include:

• Evaluation of databases based on selection criteria
• recommendation of databases for vendor negotiation
• negotiation of price and licensing agreements with vendors
• authorization and authentication strategies
• notification to districts of proposed service
• a checklist of projected in-district technical requirements
• centralized subscription billing and payment
• training in the use of the online database
• workshops on the use of online databases to support the curriculum needs of students
• Evaluation of the success of the service

Management and Control of the Service
NBSLS will negotiate pricing, establish district accounts, supervise the timely access of the databases, address technical issues, and provide training. NBSLS personnel currently managing the Library Automation and Resource Sharing Service will coordinate the electronic database activities. In addition, a newly hired automation administrator will oversee the project. The CoSer project will commence with approval and aid to begin this service.

Advisory Committee
The NBSLS Advisory Council, with assistance from an adhoc committee representing participants of the electronic database service, will serve as the advisory committee.

Cost Basis for Service
Prices for databases will vary. Cost for each database will be determined after negotiation by NBSLS personnel with individual vendors. All elements of the service including vendor negotiation, billing, workshops, and training will be covered by an NBSLS coordination fee.