[10496] in Public-Access_Computer_Systems_Forum
solution to funding internet departments for library patrons.
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (caroline nachman)
Tue Aug 6 20:36:10 1996
Date: Tue, 06 Aug 1996 16:07:47 -0500 (CDT)
From: caroline nachman <caroline@sqn.com>
To: Multiple recipients of list PACS-L <PACS-L@UHUPVM1.UH.EDU>
Reply-To: Public-Access Computer Systems Forum <PACS-L@UHUPVM1.UH.EDU>
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
the only sensible solution to funding internet departments for
library patrons is to charge the patrons low fees which easily pay for the
acquisition of equipment and software, and training of library employees. i
really see the provision of such services as essential -- because in large
metro areas and isolated rural areas, NO ONE ELSE WILL DO IT.
even a charge of $3 per hour will pay all costs and quickly produce
a profit. e.g. if a PC is occupied 50% of the time at $3 per hour, assume
that is 5 hours per day x 6 days per week and 52 weeks per year = $3/hr x
1,560 hours/yr = $4,680/yr in revenues.
the REASONABLE purchase price for the equipment and software needed,
including modems, etc. is about $1,800/PC. [I know libraries in chicago
have overpaid outrageously for their PCs, but -- that's just chicago.]
Telephone line cost, plus IAP charges will total about $50/mo = $600/yr/PC.
Maintenance charges will run about $50/PC/mo. x 12 mo = $600/yr/PC because
library PCs take a lot of hard use. Total cost, assuming write off 50% of
initial cost every year, $900 + $600 + $600 = $2,100/yr/PC.
$4,680/yr revenues
-$2,100/yr expenses
=$2,580/yr gross margin.
If the above scenario is even somewhat correct, why aren't libraries
charging fees and funding large internet departments?
caroline
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