The many roles of an information technology section

Abstract

The Information Technology Section (ITS) of the Albert R. Mann Library at Cornell University is introduced, focusing on key roles regarding the public services, technical services, and preservation and collection development divisions. Six key roles, or functions, are discussed: 1) maintainer—ITS is responsible for maintenance and support of all computer and network hardware and software; 2) interpreter—the section interprets the information access needs as expressed by patrons and staff to create useful software application programs for their use; 3) trainer—ITS plays a key role in training staff to effectively use those applications; 4) enabler—the section provides staff with the technical background that enables them to translate the challenges to information access they see firsthand into insightful and meaningful suggestions; 5) liaison—ITS exploits its technical expertise to effectively communicate the library's requirements to the campus technical support unit; and 6) advisor—ITS represents the library, both its needs and its offerings, participating in the strategic planning done by academic units for the incorporation of electronic technologies into instruction, research, and extension.