New KCLS Catalog

catalog.kcls.org

Training Materials:

OPAC Overview Video

Training Scenarios

FAQs

In this tough economy, why did KCLS decide to go with a new system?

There are fundamental, functional problems with our current system. The system is reaching the point where we either need a significant overhaul or replacement. The current vendor has not addressed the issues that KCLS staff have repeatedly requested. When the vendor is able to make an update, a simple change can cost as much at $20,000. Our new system is open source software (OSS) meaning that it cannot be exclusively owned, but it may be modified by any library. The ability to make changes to our own ILS, will provide beneficial control over the development, maintenance, reliability and adaptability of our most essential system and the associated costs. Allowing KCLS the opportunity to design an information system that will fit our patron services, rather than being limited by the existing services that are provided by privately licensed software.

What is Open Source?

Open source means that the code or computer language is not proprietary. A staff member who understands the code may suggest or write software changes that may be easily integrated into the new system. That is not the case with our current system. Additionally, other developers from around the world may make changes to improve the system. Anyone including KCLS, may contribute software changes to the library community in return. KCLS may also choose to collaborate with other libraries to develop new products, including our current projects for a mobile catalog and kid’s catalog.

Is Open Source Software (OSS) secure?

OSS is by design more secure than proprietary code. Because the code is in the open, anyone may view it. There is no room to hide errors in the code (intentionally or through negligence) and the software's community will identify and resolve security issues in OSS far faster than in proprietary software.

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