Carol Silvers, the State Documents Coordinator, is trying to puzzle through preserving state documents delivered through the Internet with the Government Information Locator Service. The final product will index and improve access to electronic information within state agencies, especially to information found in state web pages. The project began in January 2000 and is just moving from the investigating phase to full time research. This is something we are learning as we go. The State Library, with legislative support, is also pushing the envelope to deliver accurate information directly to citizens.
Plans call for a statewide virtual catalog as well.
In the future, it may be possible for someone at home to request a book from any library in the state-and have it delivered to their door. Bolles said that while the State Library is the leader in technology, there is another element that is very important. If a person finds something on the Internet they want to print it out and hold it in their hands, I don't think we'll see that change. While the State Library provides for the information needs with high tech it also will continue providing for high-touch, human needs. Echoed through out the different divisions of the Idaho State Library is the focus on service.