This fall, Texas State University Libraries completed a massive project that involved the migration of its Integrated Library System to FOLIO, an open-source system with a more modern architecture. Last spring we shared some of the changes and user benefits provided by the new system. There are other functional benefits that will be felt by library workers as well. This system administers core functions such as circulation, acquisitions, and cataloging, while also integrating with many other systems.
Here are some of the behind-the-scenes benefits to this project:
- Cloud-based FOLIO allows more flexibility for library staff in allowing work from any location with internet access.
- Some of the staff interfaces of FOLIO are much more intuitive and therefore easier for new staff and student employees to learn.
- FOLIO APIs extend our abilities to customize and integrate with other systems.
- Better integrations with different databases through modern technology, reduces administrative burden and strengthens our capacity.
- Because the solution is vendor-hosted, University Libraries and the Enterprise systems staff do not have to perform software upgrades or patch servers.
- FOLIO migration has been an opportunity to re-evaluate tasks, workflow, and settings. For example, many circulation rules were simplified across our libraries for easier management in the new system.
- Looking at the system from a financial point of view, FOLIO provides the benefits of a modern library system at a reasonable, sustainable cost. The two other major systems available would have incurred a much higher annual subscription cost.
- The online catalog, Locate, is still quite new, but we anticipate it getting significant updates and improvements over the next 12-18 months.
This endeavor required significant time and effort, not only from the implementation team, but also from library employees who work with the system and amazingly, the project was completed in less than a year: On top of their regular duties, library staff invested heavily to ensure the success of the project. They encountered successes and challenges, as is expected in any large project of this magnitude. One stumble occurred when the hosting vendor moved our data, and erroneous overdue notices were delivered to patrons. But overall, challenges were quickly met and the new system works beautifully.
FOLIO, as an open source system, should advance in the coming years, leaving Texas State University Libraries well positioned to meet the demands of an increasingly digital and diverse ecosystem to aid our researchers.
This article was contributed by Discovery & Metadata Librarian Mary Aycock (project lead) and Library Systems Administrator Paivi Rentz.
Congratulations to the Implementation Team Members on a job well done!
FOLIO Team Implementation Members:
- Mary Aycock, Lead
- Noah Brock
- Trina Eilers
- Matt Greengold
- Stephanie Larrison
- Sophia Mosbe
- Alfredo Pinto
- Henna Punjabi
- Paivi Rentz
- Crystal Salinas
- Venus Sculer
- Jacqui Thomas
- Sheila Torres-Blank
- Laura Waugh