A group of authorities in the South West, including the Foursite
Consortium, is currently starting to prepare a specification for a Library
Management System (LMS).
We have established a 'Blue Sky Thinking Group' to think the unthinkable in
terms of our requirements. To help guide our thoughts in terms of where
libraries will be in 5-10 years time, we're using Framework for the
Future.
Whilst looking specifically at the outputs we require for our customers,
there are also a number of areas we're also interested in exploring, such
as RFID, smart cards, integration of LMS with Customer Relationship
Management (CRM) solutions and catalogues which seamlessly integrate
discovery of traditional library materials alongside electronic resources.
I would be very interested to hear from other library authorities who are
either currently embarking on, or have recently been involved in, re-
tendering, especially if you are taking / took an un-orthodox or output
based approach. I'd also be interested to hear from anyone working on any
of the specific subjects outlined above. We're very willing to share our
experience so far and would welcome learning from others.
Thanks in anticipation of your help.
Ciara Eastell
Principal Assistant County Librarian
Somerset Libraries Arts and Information Service
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