Ex Libris™, part of Clarivate™, has launched the first quarterly release for its Alma library management service in 2025, introducing several key updates designed to improve cataloging, user experience, and reporting capabilities. The February release highlights the phase 1 rollout of the AI Metadata Assistant, enhanced user interfaces, and support for the latest COUNTER R5.1 reports.
The standout feature of this release is the debut of the AI Metadata Assistant, now available in the Alma Metadata Editor. This innovative tool is designed to streamline the cataloging process by providing metadata suggestions that help catalogers complete tasks more efficiently. The AI-driven assistant allows catalogers to upload images and PDFs, select templates for new records, and benefit from helpful recommendations for metadata completion. Administrators can also customize local normalization processes and merge rules, while version tracking ensures accuracy and accountability in metadata management.
Continuing its focus on improving the user experience, Ex Libris has also rolled out new user interfaces for Title Search and Manage Patron Services, which will now be the default in Alma. These streamlined interfaces enhance usability, making workflows more efficient for library staff. The changes aim to improve operational efficiency, reduce staff training time, and ultimately provide better service to library patrons.
In response to the growing importance of reliable usage data, Alma now supports the loading of COUNTER R5.1 reports, both manually and via SUSHI harvesting. This update is especially timely as libraries prepare for year-end reporting, ensuring that they have accurate and reliable usage statistics for various resources. The enhanced reporting capability will enable libraries to make more informed decisions and justify their expenditures with greater confidence.
Ex Libris continues to prioritize enhancing Alma’s functionality and usability throughout 2025. The latest updates lay the groundwork for an exciting year of innovation, focusing on streamlining library workflows and enhancing the value that Alma provides to institutions.
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