Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Libris Design?
A: Libris DESIGN is a library facility-planning database that assists local library officials with the planning of public library buildings.
Q: What can be done with Libris DESIGN?

Q: What are the advantages of Libris DESIGN?

Q: Who developed Libris DESIGN?
A: The Cerritos Public Library, Cerritos, California contracted with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) to develop the Libris DESIGN database with a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the California State Library.
Q: Who provided the funds for Libris DESIGN?
A: Funds for the development of Libris DESIGN came from a federally funded grant provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act and administered by the California State Library.
Q: Who may use Libris DESIGN?
A: Anyone planning a public library building may use the database.
Q: What does Libris DESIGN cost?
A: Libris DESIGN is a database provided free of charge to California libraries and to individuals who have taken the Infopeople "Using Libris Design" workshop.
Q: Is the Libris DESIGN database copyrighted, and do I need a license to use it?
A: No.
Q: How can Libris DESIGN be acquired?
A: The software will be distributed at the training workshops. It is only available to individuals who have taken the training workshop.
Q: What kind of PC & software do I need for Libris DESIGN?
A: The minimum system configuration is a Pentium 200 MHz processor with 64 MB of memory and 100 MB of free disk space using Windows 98 , ME, or XP operating system. The preferred minimum system configuration is a Pentium III 500 MHz processor with 128 MB of memory and 100 MB of free disc space. Libris DESIGN can be run on MS Access 2000 or higher.
Q: Is there an Apple MacIntosh version of Libris DESIGN?
A: No. There are currently no plans to provide the software on any other platform other than the "Wintel" PC platform.
Q: Who provides training for Libris DESIGN?
A: Infopeople will provide training classes on a fee basis to California Public Library planners. Out of state training can be contracted through the Libris DESIGN Project Manager.
Q: How do I get training?
A: Check the Infopeople website for the next scheduled class in your location. If you are interested in training and don't see anything that meets your needs, send a request for training using the User Feedback form on the Libris DESIGN website. Be sure to note where, when and how many people need training. A list will be developed to identify future needs. Training is available out of state on a contract basis.
Q: Where can I get a manual to help me use Libris DESIGN?
A: The detailed context sensitive help in the program can be quite helpful. In addition the web site has a directory of error messages, "Troubleshooting and Error Messages", and what to do about them, and a glossary of Libris DESIGN terminology and planning assumptions. Extensive User Help Documentation is included on the CD with the software.
Q: How can I communicate with other Libris DESIGN users?
A: The discusssion list and blog on the website allows users to ask questions of other users about their experience with Libris DESIGN. These may be used as a communication tool by anyone whether they have taken the training course or not.
Q: What if I have a problem using Libris DESIGN?
A: Support for the software is very limited. Only users who have received training have access to on-line "help" support via e-mail to the trainer. E-mail support is not offered to anyone else. Telephone support is not available for Libris DESIGN. However, all users may contact other users via the Libris DESIGN website discussion list and share experiences.
Q: What if I find a Software Bug while using the database?
A: Software bugs may be reported by e-mail via the "Report Software Bugs" section of the Libris DESIGN website. Bug "fixes" will be incorporated into the next release version of Libris DESIGN. Users will be able to download an updated version of the database, and will be provided with instructions on how to transfer their existing data (library models) from their current database to the updated version of the database.
Q: What else is available on the Libris DESIGN website?
A: In addition to user help documentation, the Libris DESIGN website contains a troubleshooting guide and a glossary of Libris DESIGN and Microsoft Access terminology. It also contains general library facility planning information. These general requirements, written by experts in the field, cover a range of topics including signage, site selection, power and data management, lighting, acoustics, daylighting, furniture, sustainability, cost estimating, renovation, stacks and shelving, and bidding and specification. The website also contains a database of recently constructed public library facilities in California which includes an extensive image gallery and information of size, capacity, collection and reader capacity, special features, and design team contact information.
Q: Will there be enhancements to the Libris DESIGN database?
A. The Libris DESIGN software has been enhanced on a regular basis in response to information received in training sessions, from the user group, and via the feedback and user help features on the website.
Q: When will there be future enhancements to the database?
A. Libris DESIGN is currently in its sixth release, Version 5.0. This version encompasses many software upgrades and enhancements. All work done in Versions 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 3.0 can be imported into Version 5.0.
Q: Can I hire someone to help me use Libris DESIGN?
A: Library consultants and library planners who have used Libris DESIGN may be contacted by leaving a message on the Libris DESIGN website User Bulletin Board. The listing of individuals on the website does not imply endorsement or recommendation by the California State Library, Infopeople or the Cerritos Public Library. This is only a referral system, therefore "Let the buyer beware."
Q: Are there any certified Libris DESIGN consultants?
A: No. Infopeople provides training certificates for individuals who complete the Infopeople Libris DESIGN coursework, but there is no Libris DESIGN accrediting agency.
Q: Is there a warranty provided to users of Libris DESIGN?
A: No. Use Libris DESIGN at your own risk! The following disclaimer is in effect for those using Libris DESIGN:
"Users of Libris DESIGN are hereby advised that there is no express or implied warranty in Libris DESIGN, including its software, database or any of the downloadable files. The State Library, the California State Library Foundation, the City of Cerritos, and the State of California are not responsible for any loss or damage to anyone that may result from the use of Libris DESIGN and its associated files."
Q: How many people have taken the Libris DESIGN training and are actually using it?
A: Over 600 have received training and the User List currently has over 700 subscribers.
Q: Do I need to use Libris DESIGN to apply for the California State Public Library Facility Construction Bond Act?
A: No, but it might help you to organize your building program and make good program decisions, particularly if you are not working with a consultant.

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Last updated November 18, 2005