However, the expense of such a venture has slowed progress. When Cawley learned of Merit's dial-in project, she knew it would be an ideal way to help link Northland's members and expand Internet availability in northern Michigan. Working with Merit, Cawley helped coordinate the hosting and sponsorship of seven new dial-in sites in northern Michigan. The new Internet availability immediately improved the way in which the co-op serves its users with information. Of course, the CD-ROM would become outdated immediately, because libraries continually add new holdings.
Users can now see the updated holdings as soon as a new piece of material is cataloged.
Now library information is available not only to visitors of the libraries, but also to people who want to dial in and search for materials from home. Northland is a prime mover in encouraging Internet use in northern lower Michigan. Among Northland's active account holders is Jerry Krans, library and media consultant and former sixth grade teacher for Alpena Public Schools. Using a Northland account, Krans has led his students in a variety of projects on the Internet. Individuals who live and travel in areas of the state not previously served by MichNet now will find that they can get a dial-in connection in many more locations.