Next Generation of ILS

I made a presentation on the topic " Emerging Trends in Integrated Library Systems and the Implications for Library Operations & Services"

The problem

1. The number of electronic resources available on the Web has grown dramatically since mid-1990s.
2. Libraries are beginning to depend heavily on electronic resources. All kinds of libraries spend a major portion of their collection budgets on subscription to electronic content.
3. Existing integrated library systems (ILS) can not handle the functions necessary for effective electronic resources management. Only some minor concessions to electronic content emerged, such as static links through the 856 tag in the MARC record.The core ILS didn’t evolve in step with these changes. Management of these identified resources has become somewhat difficult.To better deal with new world of Web-based electronic content, Integration and cohesiveness of the automation environment is needed.

User Expectations

User now compare their libraries’ services to such recent innovations as the Google search engine. They expect libraries to provide similar levels of simplicity. Libraries no longer want to search myriad information silo but desire one-stop search and retrieval. Libraries no longer serve hundreds users in a controlled environment but thousands of users over the web. Power users get used to use particular tool with powerful functionality. Flexibility and options are needed. How library organize, present and deliver electronic resources to user in different needs?

Future of ILSs

1. A library automation system must include a full suite of modules for each aspect of library operation. Be able to handle extremely large collections. Provide sophisticated features. Adhere to library standards. Sustain many multiple users and high volume transactions.
2. Re-integrating: Integrating multiple diverse systems rather than implementing a single package. Reality is no one product that will solve all of automation challenges that libraries face today. A library needs an entire arsenal of software in order to manage and provide access to information in all its current shapes and forms. Libraries will get more control and the ability to create a highly customized environment, it involves a lot of planning, design and coordination.

Challenges for Electronic Resources Management

The most significant challenges to managing electronic resources in an academic environment are:

• The number of electronic resources available on the Web has grown dramatically since mid-1990s.
• Libraries are beginning to depend heavily on electronic resources.
• Existing integrated library systems (ILS) can not handle the functions necessary for effective electronic resources management.
• Management of these identified resources has become somewhat difficult.
• User expects libraries to provide similar levels of simplicity as Google.

The challenges incorporated in every procedure of electronic resource access and management which reflect as:

• Acquisition challenges: Defining the value of subscription; Product selection and trial; Ordering; Managing and keeping track of license agreements
• Implementation
• Establishing access, managing links, setting up cross-Reference etc.
• Cataloging: Integrate commercial online materials substantially into library collection and OPAC.
• Web presentation: present e-resources on the library Web site.
• Providing user support and trouble shooting.
• Use assessment and analysis need to be done in order to do evaluation for cancellation or renewal
• Preservation
• What supposed to be persevered since content in e-resources is leased and the library doesn’t own it.
• How are we going to preserve the e-content

How would we overcome these challenges?

Cooperative Effort and management are needed

• Cooperative efforts from libraries, consortia, publisher, serial agents and support companies, and library system vendors are needed.
• The formation of a consensus that standards to help guide the development of ERM systems were indeed desirable.
• ERM systems need to be overlaid on or otherwise linked to existing tools, such as Serials or acquisition systems, online catalogs and e-resources gateways. It is therefore critical to establish predictable pathways among variant data streams.

Collaborate Efforts within the library are needed

• Electronic Resource Librarian set up a trial of product.
• Subject liaisons or Reference Group work with faculty closely to suggest/review a trial of products and gather feedback on them.
• Consortia purchasing and pricing can conserve budget.
• Scholarly Communication reform initiatives
• Selection policies and Strategic plans
• Selection guidelines need consider content, added values, technical considerations, licensing and business arrangements and service impact etc.
• Electronic Resource Librarian work with System person to implement access issues.
• Usage analysis and user feedback to help on the renewal/cancellation decision.
• Build digital repository for electronic content we own.