Open Source Systems in Libraries

The adoption of open source software and open source library management systems is perhaps the key recent development in the library and information world. As institutions across the world are increasingly turning to the benefits of freely available software and the opportunity to improve systems to suit their own users and environment there is a need for every information professional to understand and engage with the open source phenomenon. This provides both an essential practical guide to open source systems and how to use them in different contexts and an introduction to the movement itself; the business model, its potential and possible future innovations. International case studies offer informative examples of implementation and methodology across sectors to guide your strategic planning.

Key topics covered include: What open source is, how it has developed and its place in the modern library; A guide to the variety of resource discovery and resource delivery systems; An introduction to the main open source library management systems; Examples of innovative open source applications in libraries; An analysis of the impact and usage of open source LMS; and, How factors such as next generation library systems, the 'Shared Services' agenda and the recession are influencing open source development. This is an essential introduction for all working with library management systems in libraries, archives or museums, students studying LIS, and any institutions or companies considering using open source systems