November 1, 1996. From managing electronic resources, to streamlining daily functions such as cataloging and processing, today's libraries are seeking new, cost-effective management solutions. Now, Library Systems & Services (LSSI) and The Follett Corporation have joined forces to give library administrators a single point of contact for solutions to these pressing issues.

By adding the depth of Follett's contract management experience to its own long track record of library management experience, LSSI can provide a broad array of library operations and collaborative outsourcing services to academic, public, and corporate libraries.

According to Frank Pezzanite, President of LSSI, "No other company has a longer or more successful track record with outsourcing library services than LSSI. By bringing together our expertise and resources, we give library administrators more efficient, effective solutions for managing existing operations such as acquisitions, cataloging, processing, and provide additional career opportunities for professional librarians. We also make it possible for them to explore new options for managing automated systems, providing community reference services and harnessing today's electronic resources."

The new partnership between LSSI and Follett is more than just a merging of technologies, expertise, and resources. "We care deeply about our reputation and the quality of our products and services. Follett is a family-owned and managed business," says Follett Chairman Richard M. Traut. "LSSI shares this same commitment to both high quality service and excellence. By working together, we will make a real difference. We can help with the operation and evolution of libraries, and the educational opportunities they can unlock for everyone, everywhere."

During more than 16 years of service to the library community, LSSI has earned a solid reputation for providing collaborative outsourcing services that give library administrators improved quality of services while controlling operational costs. LSSI handles a wide range of assignments, including providing personnel to perform individual tasks such as acquisitions, cataloging, and processing. LSSI's personnel also operate entire libraries such as those of the U.S. Department of Energy.

Follett Corporation is the largest operator of college and university bookstores in the nation, and librarians' first choice for books, materials and automated systems in the K-12 market. Since 1873, this family-managed company has demonstrated a deep commitment to education and to the people it serves. Today, with more than 7,300 employees and over $900 million in revenues, Follett continues to be guided by the community values shared by its customers.