Illinois Library Systems: Cooperative Grants

In FY2007, the Illinois State Library provided a unique opportunity to Illinois Library Systems. Library Systems were encouraged to develop technology projects that would provide vital services to their members and all Illinois users. This grant opportunity was designed to focus on research and development during the first year and then be implemented during the second year.

Plinkit

Creating and maintaining an online Web presence is essential to connecting to today's users, yet many libraries do not have access to this technology. The Plinkit project provides libraries the ability to easily create and maintain a Web site, an important portal into the services and materials offered by local libraries.

Read the grant application! [pdf]

Universal OPAC

In a Google-ized world, users want to have a discovery experience that mirrors what they have learned on the Web. Currently, library users have to use multiple interfaces to check the status of library resources. Through a partnership with the Illinois State Library, Illinois Library Systems, local libraries, and OCLC, Illinois is piloting a service that will provide one stop access to the holdings of Illinois libraries.

Read the grant application! [pdf]

Libraries as 21st Century Technology Leaders

Libraries are frequently finding creative uses for technology. A report commissioned by North Suburban Library System and partnering with Illinois Library Systems and local library leaders specifically identified those innovations. Based on this data, a tool is being developed to help libraries assess their position as technology innovators.

Read the grant application! [pdf]

Read the report! [part 1] [part 2]