Past connectivity studies and the ensuing recommendations identified both a gap in knowledge and capacity in many libraries, especially smaller ones with few staff, to address connectivity challenges they face, especially in cases where their surrounding area is also not well connected. This project proposes to assist libraries through the hiring of a connectivity consultant who would work with them directly, in a concierge model, to improve their situations. In some cases this may be a simple consultation on what improvements and investments could be made to increase easily available capacity. But the larger goal is for the consultant to assist libraries in developing proposals and working with both various levels of government and telecommunications firms on projects and proposals that will likely require funding far beyond what these one time funds facilitate.
We are hoping the consultant can make tangible progress with approximately 20 libraries towards proposals and plans that could be funded in the future to greatly improve connectivity.
Applications are closed as of September 25, 2020
In addition, over the course of that year they will deliver two reports.
- The first is a guide for small-mid sized libraries recommending the best hardware and other approaches for interior and exterior (e..g both to telco and for out-of-building connectivity) networking.
- The second is a framework and best practice guide for libraries looking to provide access to patrons from home – this may take the form of device lending, hotspot lending or other. This may include specific device recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there any charge to engaging the Connectivity Consultant?
A: No, the consultant is being paid with funds from the Ministry of Educations one-time grant to support Digital Initiatives. This has enabled the Co-op to provide this service to libraries without any additional charges.
Q: Will I get a better connection from working with the Consultant?
A: It is our hope that in some case the consultant may be able to identify easy wins that could mean improved connectivity by the end of the engagement. But for the most part, we are expecting that the consultant can help you identify the barriers and develop a plan which you can then bring back to funders to complete.
Q: What is required from my library to engage the consultant?
A: After filling out the initial application, you will be contacted and a time arranged for your engagement. At this point there will be an additional information gathering phase which will require some staff time. Depending on the results this may take less or more time, but you can expect over the course of the up-to-six-week long engagement to need at least 8 hours of staff time to answer questions and provide feedback on plans.
Q: I am not ready/do not have staff available right now. Should I still apply to work with the consultant?
A: Absolutely yes. We are aiming to assist approximately 20 libraries and not all of these can happen at the same time, however as the consultant is a limited resource, it is HIGHLY advised to apply right away so that we can fit you in over the next 16 months.