Article Not peer-reviewed version

Enhancing Library Services: The

Progression from Open-Source

Integrated Library Systems to

Library Services Platforms

*
Ashis Kumar Some

Posted Date: 13 November 2023

doi: 10.20944/preprints202311.0780.v1

Keywords: LMS; ICT; LSP; FOLIO; OPEN SOURCE

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Article

Enhancing Library Services: The Progression from

Open-Source Integrated Library Systems to Library
Services Platforms
Ashis Kumar Some
ashissom85@gmail.com

Abstracts: Over time, the library and information profession has adapted and embraced new
technologies to enhance its practices. The emergence of computer and communication technology
has significantly transformed the delivery of library services. One early example of this is the
utilization of Library Management Systems (LMS) during the computerization of libraries, which
integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into library operations. However, as
libraries began to adopt electronic and digital materials, it became apparent that the current LMSs
were insufficient to handle the growing array of resources. To effectively manage all these resources,
new library systems, known as library services platforms (LSP), evolved to the next generation.
Several LSPs have gained traction, leading to a transformation in how libraries operate. This article
provides an overview of LSPs, explores various LSP options, and delves into detail about FOLIO
(Future of Libraries is Open), which stands as the only open-source library services platform
available at present.

Keywords: LMS; ICT; LSP; FOLIO; OPEN SOURCE

1. Introduction
Libraries have adapted to technological changes by incorporating the latest advances in
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve their operations. However,
implementing these innovations is a challenge for library staff. Library automation, an early
application of ICT, initially used proprietary software but later shifted to Free and Open-Source
Software (FOSS) in various sectors. Libraries in the digital age have faced the need to manage not
only print collections but also electronic resources. The traditional Integrated Library System (ILS)
was designed mainly to handle print materials and was inefficient in maintaining both print and
digital collections. The Library Services Platform (LSP) emerged as the next-generation ILS that could
manage collections in different formats and provide access to both print and electronic materials. This
transition to LSPs has brought significant changes in how libraries operate and deliver their services.
Marshall Breeding, a renowned library technology expert and consultant, coined the term “Library
Services Platforms” (LSP) in 2011. LSPs have become popular because they offer libraries a
comprehensive solution for their collection management needs. Among the various LSP platforms
available, FOLIO (Future of Libraries is Open) stands out as the only open-source library services
platform currently available. This article gives a basic overview of LSPs, explores the intricate features
of FOLIO, and compares several LSP options.

Existing Research
Electronic materials are quickly displacing printed materials as the primary resource in library
collections(Wang & Dawes, 2012). Existing ILS products are insufficient for handling electronic
content and users(Kouis & Agiorgitis, 2021). Different terminologies have been observed for various
LSP products(Breeding, 2015). Different suppliers utilised different names while introducing their

© 2023 by the author(s). Distributed under a Creative Commons CC BY license.

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own LSP products(Grant, 2012). Wilson gave an overview of various next-generation library services
platforms(Wilson, 2012). LSPs were created to not only address the current demands of libraries, but
also to anticipate their future needs(Yang, 2013). LSPs are becoming more popular among
libraries(Adegbilero-Iwari & Hamzat, 2017). Some studies focus on the migration to LSP as a result
of concerns like as vendor lock-in, licencing costs, and difficulty managing print and digital resources,
among others(Gutierrez, 2019). Gutierrez, Burn, and D'Amato &Erb each discussed their own
migration experiences to Sierra, WMS, and Alma(Kerrie Burn AFALIA, 2019).
Cornell University is a group member of the FOLIO development team and the first library to
embrace it through migration(D’Amato & Erb, 2018). According to Moonasar, the decision to use
FOLIO was influenced by its open-source nature and capacity to manage both traditional and non-
traditional resources(Anushie Moonasar, 2022). Zhou et al. discussed the FOLIO implementation
process, issues encountered, and solutions(Zhou et al., 2023). Breeding summarised the FOLIO
implementation in several libraries(Breeding, 2020). In the near future, FOLIO has the potential to
become a major library system(Peter McCracken, 2018).Academic libraries are keen to implement
next-generation ILS, which will result in significant reductions in daily workflow times(Howell &
Colt, 2021).

2. Comparing Combined Library Systems and Library Services Platforms

The fundamental distinction between a traditional Integrated Library System (ILS) and a
sophisticated Library Services Platform (LSP) is their administrative scope. While the ILS is primarily
responsible for print collections, the LSP is in charge of both print and digital resources.
ILS systems encounter issues in managing growing digital and electronic collections with a
uniform workflow and interface. They lack provisions for dealing with critical features like
subscription information, licence terms and conditions, and user limitations for licenced electronic
resources. Various supplements, such as OpenURL link resolvers, add-on modules, and federated
search platforms, have evolved to improve the usefulness of ILS in managing digital resources. These
add-on solutions are designed to improve library operations by offering a comprehensive platform
for handling various collections.
The Library Services Platform (LSP), on the other hand, adopts a different approach. It combines
the functions of several add-ons, obviating the necessity for supplemental items and traditional ILS.
The LSP provides a more efficient and complete solution for managing both print and digital
resources in libraries by merging many elements into a single unified system.
The moment has come to redesign the Integrated Library System (ILS) to handle the integration
of workflows for both print and electronic materials seamlessly and efficiently. Traditionally, ILS
systems have used a client-server design, with a single server serving a single institute or
organisation, with the exception of some cloud-based systems that serve many organisations. The
Library Services Platform (LSP), on the other hand, is a multi-tenant architecture that serves several
institutions in the cloud. LSP eliminates the need for local servers, hardware upkeep, and software
maintenance expenditures. Furthermore, while changing ILS versions, LSP avoids the need for
hardware updates.
One of the primary benefits of LSP is its ability to fully integrate e-resource management. It
integrates many features such as acquisitions, licence and database management, vendor tracking,
and e-resource subscription tracking. This integration allows libraries to manage their electronic
resources more efficiently inside a single platform. Furthermore, LSP facilitates e-resource metadata
management, resulting in speedier retrieval of electronic materials.
Library Services Platforms (LSPs) in general are gaining popularity as a modern and adaptable
alternative to traditional Integrated Library Systems (ILSs). LSPs offer a broader range of
functionality, improved interoperability, and greater customization and integration possibility. As a
result of its modernised approach and flexibility in serving the expanding needs of library services,
libraries are increasingly drawn to LSPs.
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3. Actively Shaping the New Library Services Platforms –

When switching to new platforms, librarians should think about how they may use the
expanded features of these platforms to make a substantial and positive impact on their
profession(Joorel, 2019). To do so, librarians should prioritise the following factors while selecting
and integrating these systems:
1) The mission and standards of librarianship have to be entrenched in the product -To accomplish
this, it is critical to develop a clear understanding of our mission. Although this is a contentious
issue, for the purposes of this article, let us accept R. David Lankes' (Syracuse University)
statement: "The mission of librarians is to enhance society by enabling knowledge creation
within their communities." This succinct and inspiring remark serves as a solid basis. As we
embrace these new platforms, it becomes increasingly important to investigate and apply ways
that correspond with this objective, allowing us to perform our duties more successfully.
2) Defining our future is a task of participation, not representation -Librarians should actively
participate in the development process to ensure that products are consistent with their mission
and values. NISO provides a significant forum for participation. Future product releases should
be influenced by ongoing projects like as demand-driven acquisitions, bibliographic framework
improvements, SIP and NCIP, ERM, and open discovery. Librarians can shape their library's
future systems by engaging in and providing staff time to relevant projects. It is critical to push
for API standards and data transfer in cloud computing environments, while also assuring fair
costs and timescales. Collaboration is essential between librarians and system providers in order
to build solutions that satisfy the demands of libraries and their patrons.
3) For library services to have worth they must offer difference- Successful organisations prosper
by extensively analysing their target audience and adopting a broad view of where and how
their consumers' demands might be met. This analysis also aids in determining the
organization's position and identifying areas where other organisations may outperform it.
Rather than squandering resources on useless competition in those areas, it is critical to identify
the organization's core services—what distinguishes them and makes them the chosen source
for knowledge/information services. These fundamental services are what keep the organisation
running and determine the purpose of our jobs. Everything else we do, while significant, is
ancillary and may not be required by our organisation. Outlying services can be subcontracted,
and cloud computing can play a important role in providing provision in numerous crucial
parts.

Table 1. Summary Comparison of Library Service Platforms Information Standard Quarterly -

(XLIBRIS Group, 2012).

Summary Comparison of Library Service Platforms

Notations:UK=UnkownNA=NotAgreeA=Agree P=Planned I=Included E=Elective Optional L=Limited
support of function
Open
Platform Intota Alma Worldshare sierra OLE
skies
Serial Innovative
Vendor VTLS ExLibris OCLC Kuali
Solution Interfaces
Features
multi-tenancy A A A A NA NA
saas/Cloud saas Cloud Cloud Cloud saas saas
Local installations possible? A UK NA NA A A
sAs 70 or IsO 27001 certified
NA UK A A NA NA
data center?
Daas (shared data service) NA P A A NA L
Customer Types Target
N
Public A A A A NA
A
Academic A A A A A A
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special A A A A A NA
national A A A A A NA
Consortia A A A A A NA
Functionality
selection/Acquisitions A A A A A A
Fulfillment/Circulation A A A A A P
Description/Cataloging A A A A A P
Discovery UK E E E E E
ERm A A A A A P
ILL A A A A A UK
Booking L UK P UK A NA
Analytics NA A A A NA NA
Reporting A A A A A A
One Interface A A A P L P
Knowledgebase NA A A A A NA
Linked Data support L UK L L NA NA
Open APIs and/or SOA A A A A A A
N
Event management A UK UK UK NA
A
mobile support A UK A A A NA
streaming video support A UK A UK UK NA
multi-lingual subject headings A UK A A A NA
FRBR support A P L L NA NA
RDA support A P A A A NA
Preservation Capabilities A NA A NA NA NA
E-book support A UK A A UK UK

4. Understanding the Functionality of Library Services Platforms (LSPs)

Due to their specific set of characteristics, Library Services Platforms (LSPs) differ significantly
from standard Integrated Library Systems (ILS). LSPs provide a wide range of services, such as the
management of both print and electronic resources, metadata management, unified workflows, and
knowledge bases. LSPs are designed on multi-tenant platforms, include web-based interfaces, and
prioritise interoperability among diverse systems and applications.
The following are some of LSPs available for application in libraries:

4.1. Alma
Ex Libris' Alma (https://exlibrisgroup.com/products/alma-library-services-platform/) is a
commercial Library Services Platform (LSP) that runs on a cloud-based infrastructure. It is a unified
system for managing a variety of resources, including print, digital, and electronic documents. Alma,
formerly known as Unified Resource Management (URM), was introduced in 2012 and includes
modules for acquisitions, resources, fulfilment, administration, and analytics.
Alma possesses a number of significant characteristics that contribute to its efficacy as an LSP.
Comprehensive metadata management, adherence to open standards, extensive analytics capabilities
with Alma Analytics, efficient digital resource management, and an open platform with over 150
REST APIs are among them. Furthermore, Alma promotes library collaboration by building networks
that improve workflows, services, and accessibility across multiple institutions.

4.2. Bibliovation
Bibliovation (https://liblime.com/bibliovation/) is a proprietary Library Services Platform (LSP)
developed by Liblime that runs as a cloud-based web service, specifically designed for managing
both physical and digital assets in libraries. It includes a discovery layer, circulation, cataloguing
editor, serials control, acquisitions, and systems administration components.
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Bibliovation has a number of essential features and advantages. It has an API-driven discovery
layer for easy interaction with other systems. The software also contains a module for managing
digital content, allowing libraries to properly manage digital assets. Full-text search capabilities for
digital documents are provided, as is search result relevancy rating. Bibliovation offers dynamic
faceted search technology, which allows users to narrow down search results based on certain
criteria. The software also supports GeoMARC cataloguing for visual retrieval, cross-lingual search
translation, preserving search queries and results, and is mobile device friendly for simple access and
use.

4.3. Blue Cloud

Sirsi Dynix's Blue Cloud is a commercial Library Services Platform (LSP) that is available as an
add-on to Symphony or Horizon Integrated Library Systems (ILS). It was first made public during
the COSUGI 2013 conference in Utah, USA.
It has 3 important components.
• Blue Cloud Staff- This comprises cloud-based cataloguing, acquisition, and circulation, among
other things.
• BlueCloud Discovery - includes coursework, mobile, mobile for children, and entrepreneurship
• BlueCloud Connections - Commerce, eRM, and central are all available.
Acquisitions, analytics, cataloguing, circulation, commerce, course lists, eRM, mobile, APIs,
community engagement platform, visibility+, corporate eResource central, web services,
SymphonyWeb, and so on are BLUEcloud modules.

4.4. FOLIO (Future of Libraries is Open)

FOLIO (https://www.ebsco.com/academic-libraries/products/ebsco-folio/services) is an open-
source collaborative initiative combining librarians, vendors, and developers. It was founded in 2016
as a collaboration between EBSCO, Index Data, and Open Library Environment (OLE). FOLIO is a
platform enabling libraries to integrate both print and electronic resources. EBSCO offers assistance
with FOLIO setup and hosting. The project expands on the Kuali OLE product's base and includes a
variety of applications such as circulation, acquisitions, cataloguing, e-Resource management,
administration, panorama fundamentals, and tasks.
One noteworthy feature of FOLIO is its dedication to data protection. It complies to ISO 27001
certification, ensuring strong safeguards for data security within the system. This emphasis on
security gives libraries confidence and peace of mind while using FOLIO for their operations.

4.5. Sierra
Sierra, (https://www.iii.com/products/sierra-ils/) launched by Innovative in 2011, is a
commercial Library Services Platform (LSP) that may be installed locally or hosted on a Software-as-
a-Service (SaaS) architecture. Innovative updated their previous product, Millennium, by
incorporating new functional modules and utilising the open-source database PostgreSQL, RESTful
web services, and APIs.
Sierra includes a number of modules that are critical for library operations, such as cataloguing,
acquisitions, circulation, e-resource management, serials, and administration. Additionally,
Innovative provides Sierra support services such as hosting, training, process analysis, and custom
development. These services are designed to help libraries deploy and optimise Sierra for their
specific needs.

4.6. WorldShare Management Services (WMS)

The Online Computer Library Centre (OCLC) launched WorldShare Management Services, a
proprietary cloud-based Library Services Platform (LSP), in 2010. It includes a full set of tools for
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managing library tasks such as acquisitions, circulation, cataloguing, e-resource management,

discovery, metadata management, resource sharing, reports, and APIs.
Based on feedback from member librarians, OCLC regularly improves WorldShare
Management Services to ensure that it meets the changing needs of libraries. Inventory management,
barcoding, self-check-in, check-out, RFID connection, and acquisitions management are among the
functions available on the platform. WorldShare Management Services provides customers with a
unified, user-friendly interface that allows them to search across all collections and databases for
quick retrieval. It succeeds in managing both physical and electronic resources, delivering
information to library patrons in the manner they desire.

5. Analysis of Open-Source Library Services Platform–FOLIO

FOLIO, which stands for "Future of Libraries is Open," was created in 2016 as a collaborative
effort between EBSCO, OLE, and Index Data. EBSCO and other partners offered financial support for
the project. FOLIO is an extension of the open-source project Kuali OLE, which is currently
maintained by the Open Library Foundation, a non-profit organisation. FOLIO incorporates
traditional Integrated Library System (ILS) functionality while also merging print and electronic
inventory management. It provides flexibility and accessibility as a multi-tenant, cloud-based
platform with a web-based interface.
A Special Interest Group (SIG) of subject matter experts from libraries, developers, and suppliers
exists inside FOLIO. These Special Interest Groups (SIGs) concentrate on certain functional areas such
as metadata management, user management, consortia, reporting, electronic resource management,
acquisitions, and more. The SIGs actively contribute to the FOLIO project's growth, ensuring that it
meets the changing demands of the library community.
Within the FOLIO ecosystem, OLE symbolises a community of libraries that actively contributes
to the growth of the FOLIO project while maintaining intellectual property rights. Index Data, on the
other hand, is a software company that is at the forefront of FOLIO's technical development. The
programme is distributed under the Apache 2 licence, which allows for widespread usage and
modification.
FOLIO has a consistent release schedule, with three new releases each year. These new releases
are labelled with alphabetical "flower names." Nolana, the most recent release, was released on
December 15, 2022, providing new features and functionalities to the platform.
FOLIO has built a global library community that includes prestigious institutions such as Cornell
University, Duke University, Missouri State Libraries, Texas A&M University Libraries, University
of Chicago, University of Glasgow, and many more. These libraries are active participants in the
FOLIO project, offering their knowledge and insights to its growth and success.
The FOLIO community manages its development and communication through a variety of
ways.
• Wiki – Confluence FOLIO wiki to store documents.
• Github – To store the source code of FOLIO.
• Slack - A real-time chat for developers and community members.
• JIRA - To track development activities like requesting new features, reporting bugs, etc.

5.1. FeaturesofFOLIO
• Community Driven- FOLIO is the outcome of a joint effort between librarians, developers, and
vendors. Librarians contribute their subject expertise, providing vital insights and requirements
for FOLIO's features and functionalities. Developers then use this information to construct
modules and platforms that are tailored to the specific demands of libraries. Vendors play an
significant role in assuring the seamless adoption and operation of FOLIO within library systems
by providing implementation, hosting, and support services. This collaborative approach
enables a well-rounded development process that takes into consideration the viewpoints and
expertise of all stakeholders in the FOLIO community.
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• Extensible- The FOLIO platform is extendable, allowing developers to expand its capabilities by
introducing new services based on feedback from various teams. Because of its extensibility, the
platform may adapt and expand to meet the different needs of libraries. FOLIO also offers
Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to support external functions. These APIs enable
smooth integration with external systems and services, greatly enhancing the FOLIO platform's
capabilities and interoperability.
• Modern Interface- The system offers a modern user interface that makes productivity and
navigation easier.
• Service-Choice Oriented- FOLIO is an open-source library service platform that libraries can use
to build themselves or through a service provider.

5.2. Modules of FOLIO- FOLIO includes the following modules:

• Cataloguing – Bibliographic management of the library’s inventory.
• Acquisition – Management of vendor details, different budgets, orders, and billing of procured
materials.
• E-Resource Management – Management of electronic resources such as licensing terms and
policies, subscription details etc.
• To manage users such as library staff, students, faculty
• Reports – Generation of different reports like the type of loan, fines, transaction records, etc.
• Circulation – To manage transactions like defining rules for circulation, fines, notices, etc. and
circulation of items.
• Managing the import and export of data

The figures (Figures 3 and 4) indicate the different modules of FOLIO LSP.

Figure 1. FOLIO Home Page.

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Figure 3. FOLIO Menus.

5.3. Councils of FOLIO

FOLIO’s Governance model comprises three councils, each assigned specific responsibilities for
the Project.
• Community Council- It ensures a vibrant and healthy community as well as the seamless
operation of the project. It also controls financial obligations.
• Product Council- This directs functional development and regulates FOLIO's scope.
Coordination with other councils for product vision strategy and roadmap.
• Technical Council- This ensures that technical policies, infrastructure, operational health, and
best practises are maintained.

5.4. Service Providers of FOLIO

Due to the fact that FOLIO is an open-source platform, libraries can use and host it for free.
Furthermore, there are businesses who provide FOLIO-related services like as implementation,
hosting, support, training, and more.
• EBSCO - EBSCO(https://www.ebsco.com/academic-libraries/products/ebsco-folio/)
Information Services, also known as EBSCO FOLIO Services, is a vendor for FOLIO and has been
involved in its development since its start. EBSCO not only supplied financial assistance, but
also technical skills to the FOLIO initiative. Globally, EBSCO's sales force is critical in promoting
FOLIO. They provide a variety of services such as implementation, hosting, and support, all of
which interact smoothly with other EBSCO services such as EBSCO Knowledge Base and EBSCO
Discovery Service. These linkages improve library procedures and the services available to
library consumers. Customers of EBSCO Information Services for FOLIO include notable
universities such as Missouri State University, Cornell University, and others.
• Index Data- Index Data(https://www.indexdata.com/folio/) specialises on software
development and consulting. They are the principal architect of FOLIO and have been actively
involved in its growth from its inception. Index Data provides a full spectrum of FOLIO
implementation services in libraries, including hosting, support, training, customisation, and
setup. They have also created a YouTube channel dedicated to FOLIO tutorials, which provides
users with essential materials. Index Data's hosting and services for FOLIO have been chosen by
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prestigious universities such as Simmons University, Duke University, Lehigh University, and
others.
• ByWaterSolutions -(https://bywatersolutions.com/products/folio) In the United States, this
company is a well-known support provider for open-source library solutions. They specialise in
assisting libraries with FOLIO implementation, hosting, and training. Their support services are
broad and specifically geared to the needs of libraries. They offer hands-on and personalised
training through a variety of modalities, such as on-site visits, live webinars, and internal
training materials such as manuals and video tutorials. This company's notable clientele include
Warner University, St. Thomas University, Washington College, and others.

6. Shifting Model of Sustainability

Sustainability is important when libraries consider purchasing software packages like FOLIO. It
is dependent on the long-term viability of the connected businesses and public trust in open source
communities. With regard to FOLIO, a network of libraries, including EBSCO, provides both
monetary and in-kind resources to ensure its viability. Commercial services will support continuing
development during implementation, helping both the FOLIO community and independent library
implementations. Successful initiatives like Koha use this sustainable approach, which blends
commercial services with community involvement. Grants and unpaid contributions might help a
project's resources even more. Projects with a weak commercial environment have lower long-term
viability than those with a strong donor base or grant support.

Table 2. Folio-advances-with-new-implementations-and-organizational-
changes(https://librarytechnology.org/document/25422/folio-advances-with-new-implementations-
and-organizational-changes).

FOLIO Implementations

Institution ERM LSP Discovery Support Previous ILS

Provider

Full FOLIO LSP implementations

Chalmers University of Technology Aug-19 Sep-19 EDS EBSCO Sierra

Missouri State University Jun-20 Jun-20 EDS EBSCO Sierra

St. Thomas University Jun-20 Jun-20 EDS ByWater WMS

Simmons University Jun-20 Jun-20 EDS Index Data Millennium

Warner University Jun-20 Jun-20 EDS ByWater WMS

FOLIO ERM implementations

Washington and Jefferson College Jun-20 EDS ByWater Symphony

Leibniz Information Centre for Economics May-20 GBV LBS

Leipzig University Jun-20 Local / VuFind Self-hosted LIBERO

Cornell University Jun-20 EDS EBSCO Voyager

Duke University Jun-20 2022 Summon Index Data ALEPH

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10

Pending Implementations

Lehigh University EDS / VuFind Index Data Kuali OLE

Fenway Library Organization DS Index Data Voyager / Millennium

National Library of Hungary custom HerMészSoft Amicus

Five Colleges EDS EBSCO Aleph

National Library of Florence Locally developed

Texas A&M University Jul-21 EDS Self-hosted Voyager

Shanghai Library Oct-21 Self-hosted Horizon

Spokane Public Library Self-hosted Horizon

University of Alabama Dec-20 Dec-20 EDS EBSCO Voyager

University of Chicago Jul-21 EDS TBD Kuali OLE

7. WHY SHOULD LIBRARIES GET INVOLVED IN FOLIO PLATFORM?

It's time to get engaged since the FOLIO Scheme is fair getting started with its next form of LSP
services and capabilities. The FOLIO project is undergoing numerous revisions. Individuals and
institutions alike have opportunities to contribute to and form the future FOLIO.
I. FOLIO HAS BEEN SEARCHING FOR HEALTHIER WAYS TO CREATE AN OPEN
SOCIETY- FOLIO scheme presents membership mechanism in 2021, requiring institutions to
sign MOUs with Open Library Foundation, increasing contribution, funding, and productivity,
fostering inclusivity and collaboration.
II. SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES HAVE OCCURRED IN THE FOLIO SOCIETY'S
GOVERNANCE MODEL - In 2021, the FOLIO society underwent a governance model change,
reorganizing decision-making figures to be more representative and independent. The
Stakeholders Meeting was once the highest decision-making body, but has been replaced by the
Community Council (CC), which is elected by members registered on Slack, Jira, and wiki. The
CC fosters a healthy ecosystem of sustainable collaboration, while the event Council managed
the FOLIO feature strategy, the Technical Council manages technical policies, and the TC paths
and reports technical obligation.
III. TO MAXIMISE WIN-WIN ACHIEVEMENTS, FOLIO ENDORSES THE KNOWLEDGE OF
COOPERATION AND MUTUAL AFFLUENCE - FOLIO combines library and service provider
professionals, fostering innovation and a friendly environment. It enables libraries to create
tailored products and service providers to meet specific needs. FOLIO improves service
provider relationships by enabling collaboration and enhancing the quality of FOLIO LSP. The
platform also fosters symbiotic relationships with other library products, demonstrating its
capability to improvement side-by-side with different crops.
IV. THE FOLIO PLAN'S PARTICIPANTS WILL PARTICIPATE TO THE ELEVATION AND
SUBMISSION OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES& DIMENSIONS - FOLIO project member can
participate in software development lifespan and smear evolving technologies in services using
microservices architecture. Key mechanisms include Okapi, Stripes framework, and
microservice modules, allowing upright functionality finished apps. Behind Okapi, based on the
server, are the distinct micro-services in the form of units. These server-side instances are
complementary with browser UI units, which composed form specific applications (or “apps”).
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11

Applications may also include Edge units which license outside systems to assimilate into
FOLIO (e.g. RTAC, OAI-PMH). (see Figure 6) Diverse old-style combined library organizations
which are decided-on n-tiered designs (UI level, Service Lavel, Data Lavel), FOLIO’s micro-
services project allows for vertical shares of functionality through Applications which can be
additionally, substituted with alternatives, or separate overall.

Figure 3. Edge API (s) (Cited from Vince Bareau, FOLIO Plan and Design).

The FOLIO LSP comprises the FOLIO Stage as well as a collection of apps that are recognized to
form a reliable solution to ordinary tasks of successively a library and are advanced by the FOLIO
core groups and outside teams. The Technological authority andBoardisemployed on the value
declaration and the serial list of standards that will agreeoutside code aids to the FOLIO architect
LSP. The long apps are providing by FOLIO associates. It’s usuallyfortified that all FOLIO
applicationstrail the shared set of applicability & feel strategies. (see Figure 7)

Figure 4. FOLIO Applications (providing by Vince Bareau, FOLIO Model Developer).

FOLIO uses Scrum for Agile development, with twenty teams handling library overall services,
platform subject, and core functions, prioritizing tasks based on features.
IBM survey shows majority excited about increasing microservices adoption in IT industry, with
trend expected to continue(IBM Corporation, 2021).IT sectors’self-confidence in microservices drives
innovation, increased awareness, and FOLIO platform development(Tiewei Liu, 2021).

8. Challenges that Libraries faced

FOLIO is still evolving and has many flaws. It needs more work to improve its features and
performance and make it more stable. There are also some ongoing issues in the FOLIO community,
such as how to define and reduce module dependencies, how to provide consistent and
comprehensive documentation, how to automate testing processes, and more. These challenges
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12

require the contribution of ideas and resources, as well as the confidence in FOLIO’s value
proposition. Participation builds trust as FOLIO LSP becomes more functional formation and well-
organized with each release. FOLIO was selected based on normal analysis and judgement. It is a
long-term investment in future technologies and H.R. FOLIO uses the Apache Server Licence, version
2.0, which is a type of open source software licence. This licence allows anyone to use, modify, and
distribute the FOLIO project code (even for commercial purposes) as long as they follow the licence
terms and give proper credit. This licence makes it easier to promote FOLIO, but it also makes it
easier to fork the code. How can we manage deployments that require a lot of local progress and also
share the locally developed features with other FOLIO implementing authority? This is a major
challenge for both the FOLIO group and the implementing authority. FOLIO community members
are diverse in multiple aspects, such as location, culture, and needs. Decisions usually take a long
period because all viewpoints need to be adequately expressed. At the similar time, the group needs
more capacity building. (Programmers, POs, Sysops, Developers, PMs, etc.) as the possibility of the
FOLIO projects expands. The priority development tasks cannot encounter the urgent needs of every
associate library because of the wide range of needs and limited development capacity. For example,
libraries in People Republic of China prefer AI, while their counterparts in USA and European
countries have solitude or various concerns about the practice of Artificial Intelligence applications
(Tiewei Liu. 2021).

9. Conclusion-
Library Services Platforms (LSPs) provide a wide range of features, functionalities,
characteristics, and modules that enable libraries to execute a number of tasks while effectively
managing both print and electronic resources. Commercial LSPs, as opposed to open-source
alternatives, are widely available in the market. FOLIO is currently the only accessible open-source
LSP that originated from the Open Library Environment (OLE). Because of the significant assistance
provided by service providers, FOLIO has grown in popularity among libraries worldwide.
Countries such as India have also begun to use LSPs, indicating an increasing trend. Given the
benefits of managing digital resources, it is expected that more libraries would switch to LSPs in the
future. In the future years, FOLIO has the potential to become a prominent library services platform.

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