Computer networks are an essential aspect of modern communication, file sharing, and information exchange. Additionally, in libraries, schools, and university buildings, computer networks allow computers on the network to share hardware, such as printers, and software. Computer networks can be classified based on the hardware used to transmit telecommunication, such as twisted pair wires, coaxial cables, or optical fiber cables; these are wired technologies. Examples of wireless technologies used in computer networks are terrestrial microwaves, communications satellites, cellular and radio technologies, and infrared signals.
Computer networks are typically classified based on the scale, or physical scope, of the network. A Local Area Network (LAN) covers a relatively small physical area, such as a library, a school, or a small group of university buildings. LANs have a higher data transfer rate than wide area networks; also, LANs do not require access to telecommunications lines, and therefore are less costly than wide area networks. LANs vary in size and number of nodes on the network, and various technical characteristics of a LAN can vary accordingly. Smaller LANs generally include switches, at least one router, and one modem. Larger LANs include a wider variety of network devices, such as switches, firewalls, routers, load balancers, and sensors.
Knowledge of computer networks is important for library and information professionals because these technologies are an integral part of the digital transmission of information to library users. Libraries must make determinations of their networking needs based on the number of computers or nodes that exist on the network and the network traffic that can be expected. These needs must be met within the framework of the budgets which libraries have for technologies.
Another technology that is increasingly relevant to libraries is Radio Frequency Identification technology, or RFID. This technology represents an evolution of barcode technology, and is positioned to be able to serve many of the same functions that barcodes currently serve in libraries. RFID technology can perform many functions and facilitate some library services that barcodes cannot, such as self check-out and increased efficiency of organizing and shelving library materials.
Both computer networks and RFID technologies require libraries to make various determinations regarding user needs, library resources, cost effectiveness, and user satisfaction. Systems librarians are integral to these decision making processes; however, librarians in other library departments should be informed of the ways that technologies operate and the ways that these technologies impact libraries, in order to ascertain the impact upon library users that various technologies are certain to have.
