SPRINGFIELD — The Missouri State University Libraries, in partnership with EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO), one of the leading providers of research databases, e-journals, e-books, and discovery services to libraries, has undertaken a major project to upgrade its fundamental information systems.
The foundation of this project will be a new open-source software platform called FOLIO (the Future Of Libraries Is Open). Because the MSU Libraries will be one of the first libraries in the world to fully implement FOLIO, the project is being called First FOLIO at Missouri State.
Four information systems will be implemented during the first half of 2020:
- FOLIO: A new, open-source Libraries Services Platform (LSP). The FOLIO platform is extensible, supporting traditional resource management, but focused on the ability to deliver new services. With open source systems, libraries benefit from more choice, more innovative technology, and lower costs.
- EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS): A single search box discovery interface that enables users to search quickly and seamlessly across multiple e-resources, locally digitized content, and print collections.
- OpenAthens: A standards-based, simple, single sign-on system for managing identity and resource access.
- E-Resource Management (ERM): A software tool used by library faculty and staff, content producers, and vendors to manage, assess, and improve e-resource content and services, and to control costs.
Tom Peters, Dean of Library Services at Missouri State, noted, "The primary goals of First FOLIO at Missouri State are to empower users to find and use the rich information sources and services available through the MSU Libraries, to deploy current, cutting-edge open information systems, and in general to position the MSU Libraries and its users for continued success."
Gar Sydnor, Senior Vice President for Analytics and Hosting Services at EBSCO Information Services, said the Missouri State implementation is a great win for FOLIO. "For FOLIO, an open source project created by a community of librarians, developers and services providers, to be selected by a fellow academic library after looking at all the existing systems available is a great nod to the work the FOLIO Community has done to bring this new library services platform online."
For more information, please contact Tom Peters 309-660-3648 (tpeters@missouristate.edu)
About Missouri State University
Missouri State University is a public, comprehensive metropolitan system with a statewide mission in public affairs, whose purpose is to develop educated persons. The university's identity is distinguished by its public affairs mission, which entails a campus-wide commitment to foster expertise and responsibility in ethical leadership, cultural competence and community engagement. The Missouri State University Libraries, a singular entity, provides information resources, services, and spaces to advance the University's mission.
About EBSCO Information Services
EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) is the leading discovery service provider for libraries worldwide EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS) provides each institution with a comprehensive, single search box for its entire collection, offering unparalleled relevance ranking quality and extensive customization. EBSCO is also the preeminent provider of online research content for libraries. EBSCO is the leading provider of electronic journals and books for libraries. EBSCO Information Services is a division of EBSCO Industries Inc., a family owned company since 1944.