Open Source Library Systems

Knowing about the open source alternative to integrated library systems and being able to make accurate comparisons can save a library tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars a year while more closely matching the library’s functional needs.

"This book is an in-depth collection aimed at developers and scholars of research articles from the expanding field of digital libraries"--Provided by publisher.

The theme of this meeting was the management of technologies in the context of developing countries, and in the light of recent developments concerning especially open source software and applications. Speakers from various countries debated in English and in French over the importance of changing the rules concerning library management systems, as well as related implications. Results show that open source software might be a solution, although some conditions apply. Réunis sous le thème de la gestion des systèmes automatisés de bibliothèques dans les pays en développement, conférenciers et participants discutèrent des changements récents dans ce domaine, notamment de l'apport des logiciels à code source ouvert. Les conférenciers, provenant de différents pays, présentèrent en anglais et en français leurs différents points de vue et expériences sur cette question importante pour l'avenir, de même que sur les implications qui y sont liées. Les résultats démontrent que les logiciels à code source ouverts peuvent être une solution, mais à certaines conditions.

This issue of Library Technology Reports provides you with an outline of the major open source integrated library systems and library services platforms and their influence on the broader library technology industry.

This Library Technology Report is an overview of this new aspect of the library automation industry and provides detailed information about the major open source integrated library systems and the companies that support them.

Open source refers to an application whose source code is made available for use or modification as users see fit. This means libraries gain more flexibility and freedom than with software purchased with license restrictions. Both the open source community and the library world live by the same rules and principles. Practical Open Source Software for Libraries explains the facts and dispels myths about open source. Chapters introduce librarians to open source and what it means for libraries. The reader is provided with links to a toolbox full of freely available open source products to use in their libraries. Provides a toolbox of practical software that librarians can use both inside and out of the library Draws on the author’s wide-ranging practical experience with open source software both in and out of the library community Includes real life examples from libraries and librarians of all types and locations

This book offers everything you need to know about selecting and implementing the best integrated library system (ILS) for your library, whether you purchase and install it yourself or hire a consultant to assist you. This is the book you've been waiting for. Integrated Library Systems: Planning, Selecting, and Implementing is an all-inclusive guide to acquiring a new ILS. Detailed and practical, the book covers every step of the process, from cost-benefit analysis, to evaluating software, writing the request for proposal, and implementation and training. You'll learn about different types of integrated library systems—standalone, turnkey, hosted, software-as-a-service (cloud computing), and open-source—and how to assess your facility and staff to find the best fit. The book also covers evaluation of software and hardware; third-party add-ons, such as RFID; and writing successful budget proposals and justification statements. There is even specific, headache-saving advice on working with sales reps, such as the warning not to ever accept the statement: "The vendor will not be held accountable to the contents of the RFP." Even if you're working with a consultant, this book will help you understand the process and make informed decisions.