Networking in Arkansas Networking and Arkansas Libraries Arkansas libraries have a long, rich history of working together to provide materials and services to Arkansans. Technology came into play in the mid-1970s when the first 8 Arkansas libraries joined the Online Computer Library Center to share their holdings on a state, regional and national level. The last 30 years have brought significant changes in technology, and Arkansas libraries have continued to adapt new ideas to provide better service. Glossary A Network Advisory Committee was formed in 1993 to help in assessing the needs of various library types. The committee has three academic library representatives, three public library representatives, two school library representatives and two special library representatives.
Some public libraries offer public access service for a minimal charge.
Each participants has signed a protocol agreement. A consortium which works together to build and maintain a frame relay computer backbone for connection to Internet. In 1999 over 200 public libraries will be provided with Internet connections through a Gates Library Initiative Grant. Additional libraries around the state have also purchased the software. By Dec. 1998 over 600 libraries registered.