Capita's software services business has been selected to deliver its library management system (LMS) to York St John University following a competitive tender process.
York St John has purchased Capita's cloud-based Chorus LMS, along with its web-based interface Soprano which will enable library staff to assist students on the spot, anywhere in the library or on campus, using tablet devices.
In addition, York St John will use Capita's PRISM resource discovery solution, which will enable users to search a broad range of databases, such as the institutional repository, alongside searches of the library's physical and electronic resources. PRISM will be integrated with the University's Moodle virtual learning environment and reading list system, giving seamless access to library all information.
Using Soprano, staff can issue and return items, make reservations, and answer enquiries without being stuck behind the enquiries desk, enabling them to deliver a more responsive service. Staff can also use the solution to perform circulation and stock management tasks.
The LMS will also be integrated with the university's student records and finance systems, helping to delivering further efficiencies and improvements in the student experience.
Debbi Boden-Angell, director of information learning services at York St John University, said: "Capita's software will bring a number of benefits to both students and staff. Our librarians will have all the information they need at their fingertips, to perform key tasks anywhere and at any time.
"We are always looking for innovative ways to improve the services we offer our students, and by using this software, we will be able to provide a more efficient and effective library service."
Karen Reece, head of libraries at Capita's software services business, said: "York St John is leading the way in offering an innovative and modern library solution, supporting its students by making services more accessible.
"Capita's software will allow faster reservation picking, more efficient stock takes, and offers a fully hosted solution, which will help reduce overheads and ensure York St John staff are using the most up-to-date software, while improving security and accuracy of data."
For further information regarding Capita's suite of library solutions, visit www.capita.co.uk/libraries
Capita's software services business attributes its position as the leading supplier of software solutions to the education, public sector and housing marketplaces to its strong partnership approach. It works closely with customers to provide tailored systems in the disciplines of library management systems, student records systems, customer services, mobile technology, payment collection, income management, integrated housing management, revenues and benefits processing and services and policy training. Capita's customers benefit from a bespoke service, helping them to streamline their processes and deliver a high performance customer-centric service.
Capita plc is the UK's leading provider of BPO and integrated professional support service solutions. With 64,000 people at over 400 sites, including 73 business centres across the UK, Europe, India and South Africa, the Group uses its expertise, infrastructure and scale benefits to transform its clients' services, driving down costs and adding value. Capita is quoted on the London Stock Exchange (CPI.L), and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 with 2013 revenue of £3.9 billion. Further information on Capita plc can be found at: www.capita.co.uk
