Digital library system essay

Question 1

How many days would it take to finish digitizing all the books just in the city of Baltimore? (assume 450 books/day) Is it feasible?

Serving the role of the Secretary and State Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Maryland, I would consider the implementation of the Information Time Machine for all the libraries located in the state of Maryland. It would take about 490 days to finish digitizing all the books just in Baltimore City, approximately 450 books a day. There are 17 public libraries in the city, each library has approximately 13,000 books (Burkey, 2013). Hence, it is feasible to complete the project in 1,5 years.

Question 2

What advantages would it provide at the local, state, or federal level? For instance, new revenue streams through new types of services to kids and adults or an increase in digital library visits and reading habits.  

The advantages provided at the local and state levels include increased cultural education of the local population, considerable economic benefits due to digital library visits, and the adoption of new services associated with the use of new technologies. At the federal level, there may be increased taxation.

Question 3

What disadvantages would it bring to the current library system? Think wisely, for instance, cut in workforce, closure of libraries, etc.

The disadvantages brought by this technological innovation to the current library system include the reduction of the workforce, the need for special IT education for staff to support digital library systems’ functioning,  and certain changes in perceptions regarding the usage of traditional library services.

Question 4

Based on your answers to questions 1, 2, and 3, would you like to invest in this information time machine?

Based on the previous answers, it is necessary to conclude that I would like to invest in the Information Time Machine. This project is appealing as it contributes to considerable changes in traditional approaches to a book reading by the population. Besides, it leads to increased interest in the use of new technologies. The investments made in the projects like this one are really attractive because they are based on the promotion of new technological innovations. Everyone will be able to take advantage of the latest technology available in public places. Undoubtedly, this project requires the development of a solid Information System that will be able to meet the needs of users, as well as address certain business goals (Barnes, 2010).

References

            Barnes, A. (2010). A New Framework for IT Investment Decisions: A practical guide to assessing the true value of IT projects in business. Harriman House Limited.

            Burkey, M. (2013). Audiobooks for Youth: A Practical Guide to Sound Literature. American Library Association.