T06: Hypervisors and Geeks Unleashed: Implementing a Computer Network on a Budget
Session Description
Small rural libraries are often struggling with managing computer and network technology, but this is not always the case.
When the McBride and District Public Library was successful in acquiring a new building for their operations, the Library Director gave her part-time network and computer techie a list of needs and desires for the computer network in the new building, along with a moderate budget. Moreover, she gave him free reign to design and build a system to fit the new library building. Little did she know how adventureous it could be to unleash a geek on a project like this!
Using mostly open source software, the end result was a surprisingly successful implementation of the Linux-based Proxmox hypervisor running virtual machines that serve the Library staff and patrons alike, along with a secure and stable networking infrastructure. The hardware ranges from professional workstations stuffed with RAM to small single board computers like the Raspberry Pi, with automatic backups and remote monitoring capabilities.
This session will take participants from the planning process through to implementation and current usage. Alternative hardware and software options under consideration will be discussed, as will costs. .Come learn what can be accomplished when a fearless Library Director teams up with a venturesome Techie! A lively interactive discussion will be welcomed.
Speakers
Larry Stamm
Biography
A self taught nerd, Larry has been involved with libraries for most of his life. His official connection started 22 years ago as a library trustee with the McBride Library just when computers and the internet were first appearing in the Library. During his stint as a Trustee, he successfully solved several computer related problems in the Library. After his eight years on the Library Board were up, he joined the Library staff as a Network Administrator and has remained in that position since.
Naomi Balla-Boudreau, McBride and District Public Library
Biography
Since joining the McBride Library as Library Director in 2012, Naomi's smiling personality has been a significant force in bringing the long sought expansion plans for the Library to fruition. She never says no to any new idea to bring people into the Library, and the more innovative the idea the better. More to the point, she erroneously believes the network techie know what he is doing.