Blacksburg, VA - VTLS, a global supplier of digital library solutions, has announced they are in the initial stages of exploring a partnership with the University of Virginia Library, a recognized leader in digital library technologies. The partnership will explore the creation of software tools that can be used with FEDORA, open-source repository software originally designed at Cornell University with funding from the National Science Foundation. The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is now funding research into the application of FEDORA as a joint effort between Cornell and the University of Virginia Library.

VTLS and the Library expect to focus on the development of specific digital library functionality related to VITAL, the VTLS client software for FEDORA. The two teams will also explore potential distribution of FEDORA based tools developed by the University of Virginia Library.

"The University of Virginia Library has long been known for leading-edge thinking in applying digital technologies to libraries," said Carl Grant, President & COO of VTLS. "It is very exciting to announce a collaboration that could make it possible for some of their work to be more accessible to libraries around the world and to develop new technologies as part of the VITAL product offering of VTLS."

About VTLS Inc.

VTLS Inc. (www.vtls.com) is a leading global company that creates and provides visionary technology in library solutions. We have three distinct divisions that serve a diverse customer base of more than 900 libraries in over 35 countries. Our VIRTUA division remains focused on ILS solutions. Our VTRAX division focuses on RFID technologies through a partnership with Tagsys and FKI Logistex. Our Digital Asset Creation & Management division provides cutting edge software and services for Digital Libraries. VTLS is also one of the few ISO 9001 quality certified companies within the library industry.