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EBSCO FOLIO: A Tool for Global Library Collaboration

In the realm of library services, the EBSCO FOLIO platform is making waves by bridging the gap among libraries on a global scale. With a rapidly growing number of implementations—over 300 and counting—this innovative open-source solution is gaining traction in various sectors, including academic, research, and national libraries. It aims to adapt to evolving user needs while fundamentally changing how libraries operate.

The Momentum Behind EBSCO FOLIO

EBSCO FOLIO is not just a product; it represents a vision of shared innovation and collaborative growth in the library community. Major institutions, such as the Library of Congress, have already embraced this platform, introducing new systems built upon it that serve to elevate user accessibility to their collections. As advancements are made, they benefit the wider community, who can integrate these improvements in their own institutions.

Diverse Libraries, Common Goals

The robustness of FOLIO’s offerings can be seen in its user base, which includes a gamut of libraries from liberal arts colleges like Le Moyne College to prestigious Ivy League universities such as Columbia University. The platform has also attracted consortia like SCELC, as well as large research universities, demonstrating its adaptability to various institutional needs around the globe. EBSCO’s dedicated implementation and hosting services cater to these diverse needs, ensuring that institutions harness the full capabilities of FOLIO.

Strength in Collaboration

Collaboration among libraries is central to the growth of FOLIO. The complexity of integrating diverse library systems is a challenge that EBSCO and its library partners are successfully overcoming. For example, Donna Bacon, Executive Director of MOBIUS, highlighted how they are enhancing cooperation and expanding access to knowledge through their collaboration with EBSCO FOLIO. The sentiment is echoed by Teri Oaks Gallaway, Executive Director of SCELC, who emphasizes their partnership as a mechanism to spark scalable innovation across member institutions.

An Open Source Approach to Innovation

Anya N. Arnold, Global Director of FOLIO Implementation Services at EBSCO, articulated the platform's open-source benefits, stating that it provides libraries with greater control, transparency, and long-term flexibility in their operations. Libraries are empowered to innovate without the hindrance of additional staffing requirements or internal development, making the process more efficient. Moreover, improvements are easily sharable within the community, fostering a spirit of collaboration that enriches all participating institutions.

Looking Ahead: EBSCO’s Commitment to Innovation

As FOLIO continues to advance, EBSCO is actively focusing on integrating new technologies and capabilities into the platform. Recent developments include a linked data editor slated for release within the upcoming Trillium update, as well as enhancements related to the innovative Eureka architecture. These advancements reflect EBSCO’s ongoing pledge to support and drive innovation in library services.

EBSCO Information Services, the driving force behind FOLIO, is a leading provider of research services and technologies worldwide. By combining AI with advanced search capabilities, EBSCO is at the forefront of delivering solutions that address the evolving demands of libraries, healthcare institutions, and organizations.

By investing in the open-source FOLIO platform, EBSCO is not only fostering community-driven innovations but also ensuring that libraries can meet current and future challenges efficiently and effectively. This collaborative approach paves the way for an enriched library experience, enabling institutions globally to fulfill their operational and user-experience objectives sustainably.

For more information, visit EBSCO's official site and stay updated with their latest innovations through their blog and social media channels.