How to Find the Best Library Management System

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By Russell and Kerri Cox
User-Submitted Video

Screen shot from Alexandria's School Library Management Software

Searching for the best library management system can be a daunting task. Library management systems are also called library automation systems or software. These allow you to seamlessly combine your patron records and circulation system with your electronic catalog. New library management software makes it possible for your library catalog to leave the confining walls of your library and be assessable anywhere your patrons access the Internet. With many vendors selling library management systems, the question is: How do you find the best library automation system for your library?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Use the Internet

Visit websites of the major vendors selling the library management software applicable to your use. Whether you have a small library, university library, church library, school library, law library, or public library, you’ll want to find a specialized vendor who works in your area. The vendors’ websites can provide an overview of the features of their library automation software. Some offer online tours. This is the first step in finding the best integrated library system for you.
Step 2

Request a Demo

Once you’ve focused in on a handful of vendors, you will request a hands-on demonstration from the vendor. Some vendors will send a representative to your location to give you a personal demonstration of their library management system. Other vendors may provide an online demonstration, allowing you to access the software virtually and communicating with the vendor either online or through phone conferencing.
Step 3

Talk to Your Peers

Request information from your colleagues. If you participate in a list-serve or bulletin board where librarians converse, you can put out a request for reviews from fellow librarians. Talking to someone who has used the library management software you are considering can help you learn its pros and cons.
Step 4

See the Software in Action

For a real demonstration of the library automation system, it would be best to schedule a visit to libraries that are using the software you are considering. Spending several hours trying out the software is the best way to really experience it. Before your visit, prepare a list of questions to ask your fellow librarians. You could also make a list of the features you appreciate or dislike about your current system. Then, be sure to compare each of these features to the library management system you are trying out.
Step 5

Discover Additional Options

Vendors offer many add-ons to your basic library management system. (For example, for k-12 school libraries, Follett's Destiny software offers a textbook tracking system.) Consider which of these options would be useful or crucial for your library. Remember, though, these additional options come at a cost.
Step 6

Consider the Practicalities

After deciding which software you like, the next step is to consider your budget and your technology access. Some library management systems cost more than others, so you may have to balance your desires against your budget. Also, talk to your technology team to be sure your access can handle the needs of the library automation software you are hoping to purchase. If you aren’t very hands-on in the technology department, you may need to arrange a consultation between the library software vendor and your tech team.
Step 7

Make Your Purchase and Begin Your Training

Once your new library management system has been purchased, be sure to fully utilize any training and support options offered through your vendor. It is important to be as comfortable as possible with your new software before you "go live" with it.