Clarivate's National Library Project in Croatia: A Leap into Digital Transformation

In a groundbreaking move that promises to reshape the academic and research landscape in Croatia, Clarivate Plc, a global leader in transformative intelligence, has been appointed by the National and University Library in Zagreb (NSK) to spearhead the creation of a unified national library platform. This ambitious initiative aims to implement a Software-as-a-Service, cloud-based library services and discovery system across multiple institutions throughout Croatia, encompassing nine universities and a total of 82 academic and research libraries.

The NSK, recognized as Croatia's primary cultural and research institution, serves a dual role as both the National Library of Croatia and the main library of the University of Zagreb. Its mission is deeply rooted in enhancing access to the cultural and scientific heritage of Croatia, in addition to developing a national library system that serves the needs of citizens and scholars alike.

To streamline its operations and improve access to library resources, the NSK will implement Clarivate's Ex Libris Alma and Ex Libris Primo. These innovative platforms will consolidate the existing infrastructure of various library systems into one cohesive framework, making data and services more accessible to users. The implementation of this unified library system is expected to set a new standard for academic libraries in the region, fostering a more efficient and effective information retrieval process.

A Vision for Digital Transformation
Professor Stričević, the Director General of NSK, expressed his satisfaction with the selection of Clarivate’s solutions, emphasizing their role in driving the digital transformation of the academic library system in Croatia. He stated, "I am pleased that the National and University Library has selected Alma and Primo as a unified solution that will enhance the digital transformation process for our university library system."

This initiative is being realized as part of the e-Universities project, which is financially supported by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan for 2021 to 2026. The project's overarching goal is to create a resilient library infrastructure that is capable of empowering both learning and research across Croatia's educational institutions.

Dr. Dijana Machala, Assistant Director for University Library Affairs at NSK, is leading this ambitious national strategic project. She conveyed her enthusiasm about the implementation of the Alma Network Zone, which will connect NSK with the 82 academic and research libraries across the nation. "We are excited to begin this implementation phase with Alma and Primo. This technology will significantly bolster our library infrastructure and capabilities to foster research and learning," remarked Dr. Machala.

Supporting and Empowering Libraries
Yariv Kursh, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Ex Libris, articulated Clarivate's commitment to enhancing library services on a national level. He reinforced that their collaboration with NSK represents a vital step toward supporting libraries through transformative changes that pave the way for easier access to educational and cultural resources. Kursh noted, "Today's announcement is another testament to how we empower libraries to adapt and evolve, making Croatia's rich heritage readily available to researchers, scholars, and the public."

In essence, this unified library platform not only aims to enhance the user experience for library patrons but also seeks to foster collaboration among libraries in Croatia, thereby enabling a more interconnected academic environment. Clarivate's approach and solutions are expected to significantly contribute to the future of library services in the nation, promoting the accessibility of vital cultural and research materials.

As the implementation of the platform unfolds, it will undoubtedly mark a new era for the academic libraries in Croatia, reinforcing their role in fostering education and research while preserving the nation’s rich cultural legacy. Clarivate's initiative serves as a promising model for how technology can invigorate library services, fostering a more knowledgeable and informed society for years to come.