Abstract

University libraries are a key nucleus of efforts to implement innovative information technologies. In the last two decades many services have been created under the “digital library” umbrella. In this environment, the integration of tools such as digital repositories, discovery tools or e-book loan platforms converge with the principles of open access and open data. This is a situation in which the efficiency of integrating different systems and solutions prevails, as opposed to the traditional single systems that include a lot of functions.

Abstract

This article describes the current e-books situation in Spanish university libraries, analyzing their distribution and access models. The five stages of an e-book library service are described: selection, acquisition, processing, access and evaluation. The specific aspects that should be taken into account in each phase are explained, and illustrated with some examples.

Abstract

Results are presented of an online survey answered by 3,453 libraries in 63 countries between 14 November 2015 and 21 January 2016, based on their experiences with a total of 138 integrated library systems (ILS). The best products classified in the various categories analysed were Polaris, Apollo (Biblionix), Alma (Ex Libris), Symphony (SirsiDynix), WorldShare Management Services (OCLC), Koha (independent or self-managed), Library.Solution (The Library Corporation), Opals and Spydus. The original English report was published January 31, 2016 on the author’s website: http://librarytechnology.org/perceptions/2015

Abstract

The digital transformation of the university is linked to the integration of technology tools and digital resources to all areas of the organization: management, academic offerings, learning processes, research, and communication. This transformation is an obligation, but also an opportunity, not only to the university, but also to the its library, which can seize the opportunity to lead the process.

Abstract

Results are presented of an online survey answered by 4,042 libraries in 92 countries between November 3rd 2015 and January 18th 2017, based on their experiences with a total of 138 integrated library systems (ILS), both commercial and open source. The best products classified in the various categories analysed were Alma (Ex Libris), WorldShare Management Services (OCLC), Polaris, Apollo (Biblionix), Symphony (SirsiDynix), Opals, Library.Solution (The Library Corporation), and ByWater Solutions. The original English report was published on January 25, 2017 on the author’s website: http://librarytechnology.org/perceptions/2016

Abstract

Results are presented of an online survey answered by 3,992 libraries in 87 countries between November 2017 and February 2018, based on their experiences with a total of 127 integrated library systems (ILS), both commercial and open source. The best products classified in their respective category analysed were Apollo (Biblionix), ByWater Solutions, Alma (Ex Libris), Polaris, Symphony (SirsiDynix), and Opals. The original English report was published on March 17th, 2018 on the author’s website: http://librarytechnology.org/perceptions/2017

Abstract

Libraries need change to adapt to new times. In recent years, academic libraries have been introducing the "resource center for learning and research" model, implemented in various ways. This thinkepi note explains the "centre de recursos per a l'aprenentatge i la investigació" (crai) at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, a model inspired by cooperation and finding synergies with other university services. This new model has involved a thorough restructuring of the traditional library services to integrate into the crai.

Abstract

The report of the Spanish Network of University Libraries (Rebiun) “Science 2.0: implementation of the social web to research” is discussed, and the main websites that allow scientists to cooperate or share in the three facets of research, resources and results are listed. University libraries should play an active role in the 2.0 environment to serve scientific research.

Abstract

Results are presented of an online survey answered by 3,141 libraries in 80 countries between 12 December 2014 and 29 January 2015, based on their experiences with a total of 154 integrated library systems (ILS). The best products classified in the various categories analysed were Polaris, Apollo (Biblionix), Alma and Aleph (Ex Libris), Sierra (Innovative Interfaces), WorldShare Management Services (OCLC), Koha (independend or self managed), Library.Solution (The Library Corporation) and Opals. The original English report was published February 10, 2015 on the author’s website: http://librarytechnology.org/perceptions/2014

Abstract

Review of the technological advances that have influenced the evolution of the academic library, and description of the actions taken to accommodate them: developing repositories and open access, renovating spaces, providing services to researchers, offering search tools and ebooks. The general conclusions are that academic libraries are healthy because they have been able to anticipate change and that they have good prospects for the future.