Library Technology Guides

Despite increased interest in digital and electronic content, libraries continue to manage print materials as a core part of their work. While much of the new opportunities lie in digital content and services, the future of libraries also depends on how well they can manage the diminishing—yet persistent—print collections. Current trends do not point toward a future of all digital libraries. Rather complex, multi-format collections composed of print and electronic resources will prevail for the indefinite future.

Lyngsoe Systems, a major supplier of automated material handling equipment and related technology products, has recently developed the Intelligent Material Management System. This product was introduced in partnership with the Aarhus and Copenhagen public library systems in Denmark and has since been adopted by other libraries in Scandinavia and the UK. The IMMS is a business application that supplements a library's ILS and self-service and automated material handling equipment to achieve savings in personnel costs through increased efficiency and reduced inventory errors.

EBSCO Information Services and ProQuest both have diversified businesses that include book marketplace and ordering platforms. GOBI, originally created by YBP Library Solutions, was acquired by EBSCO in 2015. ProQuest acquired the OASIS and MyiLibrary platforms from Ingram Content Group in April of the same year. ProQuest has begun the development of a new content acquisition platform branded as Rialto. The two companies compete in many different areas of content and technology.

The March 2019 issue of Smart Libraries Newsletter described the anticipated merger of the DuraSpace into Lyrasis. The respective boards of directors of these two non-profit organizations have given final approval to the merger. As of July 1, 2019, the personnel and activities of DuraSpace are part of the Lyrasis organization.

Likewise, the merger of NFAIS into NISO has been finalized. NISO announced that the transfer of assets and other organizational details were completed by June 30, 2019. Key NFAIS activities such as its advocacy and educational activities, annual conference and the NFAIS Humanities Roundtable will continue within the NISO organization. NISO recently hired Jason Griffey as Director of Strategic Initiatives to support new activities of the expanded organization.

What should we consider when looking at print management systems?