Until recently, school libraries tended to automate individually, generally choosing PC-based systems. In the past year, there has been a definite move toward the implementation of district-wide systems. Among the perceived advantages of district-wide systems are the ability to check holdings district-wide thus facilitating resource sharing, the potential for more cost-effective computer system management by maintaining a single central site, 24-hour access from homes as well as schools, and the richer functionality offered by multi-user, multi-tasking systems.
SIRSI has established a strong position in that market, landing three major contracts within the past few weeks. Largest of the new accounts is the Wichita (KS) Public Schools, a district with more than 90 schools serving nearly 48,000 students. The others are the Greater Albany Public School District (OR) with 29 schools, and the Mesquite (TX) Independent School District, with 41 schools.
[Contact: SIRSI, 689 Discovery Dr., Huntsville, AL 35806, telephone 205-922-9820, fax 205-922-9818, URL: www.sirsi.com].
