Cloud Computing in Libraries - Clearing the Way for Cloud Computing

With every increasing reliance on digital data, libraries have little choice but to employ some form of cloud computing. Interconnectivity between systems and libraries within systems has many benefits, including increased collaboration and reduction of human errors as data that is stored can be updated, checked, and corrected by anyone with access to the system. Data that is not backed up or shared via cloud would be susceptible to host of threats, as one study concluded: “. . .component failures, obsolescence, human-operation errors, natural disasters, attacks, or management errors are some common difficulties that must be carefully studied when implementing a digital library. These threats may be minimized using a distributed data-storage approach” (44). Security of data, as well as accessibility, is vital for libraries not only to be better able to serve patron needs, but to maintain security and relevance in the digital age.

Image from online article "Libraries Turn to Cloud Computing for Storage Needs"

With cloud storage, patron data is available across the system, and although this presents unique security concerns, so long as these concerns are met, patrons receive more accurate, more efficient service among library branches and across systems. Cloud computing may save libraries money in storage costs as “storage resources are provisioned on demand and are

paid according to consumption” (35). While machines, including on-site computers and servers, need to be upgraded and maintained (increasing the risk of data loss each time they undergo maintenance), cloud-based storage and sharing means that the need for on-site storage is drastically reduced, with only accessing technology needing to be updated and maintained. 

Video: Bloomberg BNA Librarian Analyst Laura Gordon-Murnane discusses the myriad ways librarians are effectively deploying cloud computing in this clip from her presentation at Computers in Libraries 2018.

There is always the issue of loss of internet, which has happened to several libraries I have been in. Unfortunately, libraries and patrons cannot have it both ways, and, facing prohibitive costs in terms of on-site space and storage as well as considering the improvements in workflow and service, cloud computing is a necessity and must be embraced by all library community members.

For further reading, a recent article on Library and Cloud Computing: https://www.nutanix.com/theforecastbynutanix/industry/libraries-turn-to-cloud-computing-for-storage-needs

Link to Video: https://cil.brightcovegallery.com/detail/videos/2018-short-cuts/video/5793396057001/how-are-libraries-using-cloud-computing?autoStart=true

Works Cited

Sosa-Sosa, Victor Jesús, and Emigdio M. Hernandez-Ramirez. “A File Storage Service on a Cloud Computing Environment for Digital Libraries.” Information Technology & Libraries, vol. 31, no. 4, Dec. 2012, pp. 34–45. EBSCOhost, doi:10.6017/ital.v31i4.1844.

BYOD and Technology Access in Libraries

In my opinion, the “bring your own device” issue is a nonissue. It is not particularly difficult to plan for patrons to bring their own devices and access library services while also providing devices for those who cannot afford or have visited the library without their own devices. Libraries do not need to provide every device imaginable, nor should they. As Walton states, “There is a real danger libraries will continue supplying services not required by users and also not develop new services that will be valued” (2). Unless a library is specifically providing for a unique program that requires specific devices, libraries should not waste their precious funding providing tablets, phones, or other rapidly-obsolete devices. 

Libraries should stick to spending their money on reliable, cost-effective, up-gradable, longer-lived technology. Desktop computers can do most of everything that patrons need, and upgrades to software are available throughout their longer life-spans, while maintenance is easier to perform as well. Patrons who choose to bring their own devices can access computers with them; libraries need only stock and provide a few types of cable connectors and adapters. Libraries with larger budgets can afford to be more generous with their offerings, but no one will suffer for lack of an iPad when a computer will do just fine or better. 

On the opposite side, libraries do need to provide some technology access. A study performed by Brewerton et al. and cited by Walton determined that “. . . Library fixed PCs were used primarily for academic work whereas smart phones had more of a social function. Students’ laptops were more likely to fulfill both functions. . . WiFi was expected to be provided. . .” (2). Computers are the minimum and most necessary. Patrons who cannot afford their own technology or who just need to use what the library has for a short time, whatever the reason, need a way to access libraries’ digital resources. Libraries have a responsibility to make their resources available to users, at least while users are on library grounds. This is already largely done by providing computer access.

From my perspective, BYOD is a nonissue, as in my experience the majority of patrons, even those experiencing homelessness will bring their own devices, and so official policies only need to address the issues with library staff assisting with patrons' personal devices and providing enough WiFi and ethernet coverage for patron use. Libraries merely need to provide WiFi and computer access, and all of the bases will be covered.

Works Cited

Walton, Graham. “Will Smart Phones and Other Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD) Dominate How Academic Library Services Are Developed and Delivered for the Foreseeable Future?” New Review of Academic Librarianship, vol. 20, no. 1, Jan. 2014, pp. 1–3. EBSCOhost, doi:10.1080/13614533.2014.875294.