Libraries, Archives, Museums: Cataloging, ILL & Automation Resources: Automating Your Library

General Resources

Automation Basics for the Small Rural Library
The Maine State Library has created a tutorial covering the basic steps involved in automating a small rural library.
Automation Issues for Unautomated Libraries
An article from the Alaska School Library Handbook that offers suggestions on going about the process of automating your library, if you decide that is in the best interest of your staff and patrons.
Implementing Library Technology (ALA)
From the web site, "Resources supporting the implementation of library automation--circulation, integrated library systems, federated search, discovery services, etc."
Public Library Integrated Library Systems White Paper (South Dakota State Library)
Provides several ILS scenarios for various systems. Also provides justifications for library automation.

Options for Small Libraries

These systems are presented for information only. No endorsement is implied. If you know of a small library automation solution not listed here, send a message to the Library Technology Consultant.

Handy Library Manager
$350 for windows version. Does not require an internet connection. 30 day free trial available.
LibraryThing for Organizations
Low cost ($25) catalog solution for libraries with less than 10,000 volumes. Allows your catalog to be web searchable. Does not provide a circulation module.
LibraryWorld
Hosted ILS system for $495/year. Can set up 30 day free trial.
OPALS (OPen-source Automated Library System)
This ILS is hosted by the vendor. Approximately $750/yr to maintain.
ResourceMate
ILS that may be locally installed or web hosted. Options begin at $495.
Surpass for Windows
Pricing depends on number of volumes. From the website: "The basic package for SL (small libraries with under 5000 materials) begins at $995 and the Select software (for libraries with over 5000 materials) starts at $2100. We offer add-ons, scanners, processing supplies, and hosting services for additional costs."
TinyCat (add-on for LibraryThing)
An inexpensive, hosted, add-on to LibraryThing that provides a professional looking catalog and circulation functions. Special rates for volunteer libraries.

Options for Medium to Large Libraries

These systems are presented for information only. No endorsement is implied. If you know of a library automation solution not listed here, send a message to the Library Technology Consultant.

Integrated Library Systems

Follett Destiny
Follett Destiny is a school library product.
Innovative Interfaces
LibLime Koha
Vendor supported version of Koha. Requires on-site IT support to install and maintain.
The Library Corporation (TLC)
Makers of CARL and The Library Solution
Official Koha development community
Open Source ILS, links to downloads, demo sites and more. Requires onsite IT support to install and maintain.
SirsiDynix
SirsiDynix - Alaska Library Catalog (ALC)
Here in Alaska, a number of SirsiDynix libraries have joined together in a single catalog. If you're interested in SirsiDynix, you may wish to contact ALC.

Discovery Layers

BiblioCommons
BiblioCommons offers a variety of services including a discovery layer that works with your ILS, a website builder, events calendar, email marketing, mobile app, and more.

Library Catalog Examples

Try out some of the public catalog interfaces before making up your mind.

For Small Libraries

For Medium and Large Libraries

Innovative Interfaces (iii) - Miami-Dade Public Library System
The Library Corporation (TLC)- The Los Angeles Public Library
SirsiDynix - Juneau Public Library (Joint Library Catalog)
BiblioCommons - Alameda County Library
NOTE: BiblioCommons is the discovery layer, but iii is the ILS underneath.