Integrated Library Systems – better watch their back

Integrated Library Systems (ILS) is the best thing since sliced bread. They have provided a clean and efficient way to search for information within the parameters set up by the facilitating library. They provide bibliographic data and holdings information so that patrons can obtain information needed. Traditional ILS have replaced the card catalog because of ease of use and for years have been the preferred research tool since the late 1980’s. However, the ILS is in trouble, as reported by Walter Nelson.

Nelson argues that OPACs are too narrow and constrictive; built for books not for journals or articles, yet not sharing content beyond the specific boundaries established by the system administrators, making the system irrelevant to patrons and staff alike. Nelson states that over the next few years discovery and content management systems will displace traditional ILS, he warns the vendors that is where their competition lies.

These systems offer a wide variety of options that make them more dynamic than the traditional ILS; featuring XML import and export tools, MARC import, export and display tools, multiple authors for rich content, and full-text and faceted search. All of these features add up being the library’s entire web site making a one-stop shop, so to speak; flexible metadata for non-traditional content, open to searching externally, creating a dynamic environment for library patrons and other information seekers.

Fortunately, there are institutions that are anticipating this inevitable fact, search engine to accept user tags, links to other resources where items can be obtained, links to all the libraries that all own the item (as well as mileage showing how far that library is from the user’s current location), an image of the item and reader reviews, among other things. OCLC and other institutions that are implementing discovery layers and content management systems are ensuring the survival of their OPACs. As Nelson states in his presentation, ‘”Library” remains a viable organizing principal, with reference <and cataloging still in symbiotic relationship’, sustaining their value in the information community.