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Workstation SpecificationsRecommended Specifications | Minimum Technical Requirements | RS --> MTR Schedule In 1991, the former Library Programs Service (LPS) began issuing minimum technical guidelines for depository libraries. The depository community was advised in May 1996 that technical requirements for serving the public with electronic information would become mandatory October 1, 1996. Technological change has increased at such a pace as to make the estimated life span of a computer about two years for newer applications. As agency publication practices run parallel to general technological changes, depository libraries must continue to keep pace. At its Spring 2000 meeting, the Depository Library Council approved GPO's proposal for a regular schedule to increase requirements. "Draft Recommended Specifications for Public Access Workstations in Federal Depository Libraries" is shared with the depository community and comments solicited. The final version is announced annually in the June 15 issue of Administrative Notes. Questions or comments should be directed to the GPO online help service at: http://gpo.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/gpo.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php Recommended Specifications (RS)The RS are intended to assist depository staff in making informed equipment purchases which will best achieve the goal of providing public access to Federal Government information in a variety of electronic formats. These guidelines are aimed at providing reasonably robust workstations which should provide years of service before they become obsolete, but GPO encourages the purchase of equipment that exceeds these specifications if at all economically feasible. The speed at which computer capabilities are evolving indicates that the higher the initial financial outlay, the longer the useful life for the equipment. Minimum Technical Requirements (MTR)All Federal depository libraries must meet the MTR to keep pace with technological change and be knowledgeable about Federal agency information delivery practices in order to fulfill their Title 44 obligation to provide access to Government information products. Libraries will be evaluated during inspections on their capability to service electronic Government information using a " functional approach." This allows libraries flexibility with computer configurations and service options. RS --> MTR SCHEDULE
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