University Library signs contract for new library management system

The University Library has contracted with Ex Libris, a worldwide supplier of software solutions and related services for libraries, for a new library management system (LMS) for the University. The new system will replace the existing one implemented in 1987, and consolidate access to a wide range of content and services through the Michigan Research Library Network (MIRLYN).

The new system's Web interface and extended functionality also will provide users with much greater search capability, including the ability to search across multiple databases and to search and display non-Roman character sets. It also includes greater user customization features, a more intuitive user interface and the ability to integrate other Web-based resources. Libraries participating in the implementation of the new system include the University Library, the Bentley, the Clements and the U-M­Flint Library.

The selection of Ex Libris follows a yearlong evaluation effort that began with campus focus groups, user surveys and involvement from numerous University Library staff members to identify and analyze user expectations and functions deemed vital to the academic success of the campus community.

Teams of library staff specialists established functional requirements and evaluated system specifications offered by each vendor.

"Ex Libris and their products stand out in terms of the mix of current capabilities, future plans and partnerships with some of our major colleagues," says John Wilkin,
associate director for Digital Library Services. "We have been especially pleased by the possibilities for integrating the Ex Libris products with the range of functions in the University Library, especially our aggressive networked delivery of service and digital library capabilities."

A Library Management System Steering Committee has been formed to oversee the implementation process. The estimated completion date of the project, funded through one-time financial support from the Office of the Provost, is early summer
2004.

"This is an exciting and significant juncture for the library," says William A. Gosling, director, University Library. "We want to thank those in the University community who have provided feedback and support, and to library staff for their contributions thus far as we move towards implementing Ex Libris as our new online system."

For additional information about the Library Management System Implementation project, contact the LMS steering team at lmssteering@umich.edu.

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