If the library’s technology staff is in-house, the library may choose to implement it without the aid of outside help. There are a variety of ways to approach this project.

A current network design should be reviewed to determine current and future bandwidth. A decision will need to be made as to whether the wireless network will be able to exist on this network, or if the network should be expanded. Expanding the network might consist of enlarging the backbone or adding a DSL line for the wireless traffic. If the current network will be used, security must be addressed. For instance, the library may choose to segment the wireless traffic onto its own virtual private network. In doing this, it will minimize the possibility of wireless users hacking onto internal services such as the library’s ILS or databases. Wireless traffic will flow in and out of the network without touching the internal network.

Once the network is designed, the library determines the location of the access points. Most libraries which are using their existing network purchase wireless access points which are a bit more expensive but provide greater security. For instance, rather than purchasing a Linksys wireless access point (which may be approximately $130) a Cisco wireless offers the ability to provide multiple VLANS and set security (about $450). If you are planning on implementing wireless for staff as well as for the public, you might consider having each network on a separate VLAN.

Some libraries who are implementing their own network utilize wireless tools. One type of tool enables you to monitor the traffic on your network, look at your access points remotely, and reset them if needed. An example of this tool is Airwave (www.airwave.com). Utilizing a tool like this is helpful particularly if your wireless network spans multiple locations or multiple floors.