Amigos Launches Open-Source ILS Pilot Project

In ever increasing numbers, libraries across the US and around the world are adopting open-source integrated library systems (ILS) as a more affordable alternative to vendor-owned proprietary systems. Open-source software is designed to be, as the name suggests, open and accessible. These are core values shared and embraced by the library community.

Recognizing the many benefits of open-source systems for Amigos Members, earlier this year Amigos began an open-source ILS pilot project.

What is open-source?

Open-source refers to software whose source code is available for use or modification without licensing fees.

How has the open-source concept been received by libraries?

The number of open-source integrated library systems (ILS) and tools available to libraries has increased dramatically over the past few years. In 2010, 32 percent of all library migrations involved a move to an open-source system, and hundreds of libraries across the US are currently using open-source tools. Open-source systems have reshaped the ILS landscape and are poised to continue this significant growth and be a major force and player in the ILS world.

How does an open-source system benefit libraries?

The major benefit of open-source integrated library systems is, of course, the lack of licensing fees. With proprietary systems, licensing fees represent steep upfront costs to libraries. Support and maintenance fees are also high and generally increase annually. With open-source systems, the lack of licensing fees makes it an extremely budget-friendly option. Furthermore, users are not locked into specific software vendors and thus have the ability to purchase support packages for their systems that fit their unique needs.

Another major benefit of open-source software is the collaborative development paradigm. In proprietary systems, updates to system functionality are done out of sight and often with little user input. In open-source development, user input is critical in determining future improvements and fixes. A core mantra of the open-source community is “release early and release often.” As a result, more frequent system releases are made available to the user community. Frequent releases of open-source software allow users to have access to new functionality and fixes in a more timely fashion.

What’s Amigos doing with regard to open-source ILS?

Amigos is excited to be in the world of open-source integrated library systems. We are currently in the pilot phase of our open-source ILS project and actively seeking participants. During the pilot, participating Amigos Members will pay no fees but will contribute their staff time for planning and testing the system.

What’s currently available to Amigos Members?

Through this pilot, we can provide Amigos Members with an affordable, hosted, web-based ILS called Koha, a fully functional system that includes cataloging, circulation, OPAC, acquisitions, and serial modules. All the modules are available to users; there are no costs for individual modules.

We are available to assist an Amigos Member’s in-house IT staff with installation and data migration. If member libraries do not have IT expertise, Amigos can handle the technical details for them. We will also provide support and training to Amigos Members.

Amigos Members who want to participate in our pilot project or are interested in learning more about how an open-source system can benefit their library should contact Charles Cason at cason@amigos.org or 1-800-843-8482, ext 2846.