Understanding resource discovery design requirements for a statewide virtual library: Application of a technology adoption indicator

The Texas Center for Digital Knowledge investigated academic and public libraries in Texas to determine technology characteristics in accord with the rate of a library's technology adoption. The study investigated technology differences between early, middle, and late technology adopters. A technology adoption indicator (TAI) was developed and used to classify libraries into one of the three adoption categories. Significant differences based on technology adoption were found for the four technology variables measured. The design implications of the differential characteristics for a statewide virtual library resource discovery service were identified.