Library automation solutions provider SirsiDynix and 3M have announced their intent to integrate the 3M Cloud Library content into eResource Central, currently scheduled for release in Q1 of 2013. SirsiDynix' eResource Central seeks to deliver key features such as hit list availability, centralised sign-on and one-click downloads. The initiative with 3M is seen as a significant broadening of the project, integrating 3M content in a way that will benefit both libraries and their users.
With over 250,000 titles from over 300 publishers the 3M Cloud Library is said to have an extensive collection of popular fiction and non-fiction titles for a library collection. All libraries using the 3M Cloud Library can select books from top publishers like Penguin, Random House and HarperCollins as well as e-books from hundreds of smaller publishers.
eResource Central is designed to simplifiy the discovery and delivery of e-content to users however, wherever or whenever they need it. It will be available to 100 percent of both SirsiDynix Symphony and Horizon ILS customers via the BLUE Cloud clients which include the SirsiDynix Enterprise and Portfolio discovery solutions, as well as SirsiDynix Social Library on Facebook and the BookMyne mobile app. eResource Central is stated to bridge the gap between content providers and users, enabling libraries to manage and deliver e-resources seamlessly and cost-effectively, while also handling traditional collections with proven solutions used by more than 3,600 libraries worldwide.
For library users, eResource Central provides simple access to library resources, including e-books and e-journals, via a single user interface. It will include full support for many e-readers as well as other content formats, along with their associated digital permissions. For libraries and library staff, eResource Central enables cost savings and simplifies the process of delivering content of disparate sources and formats to users by managing licensing and access rights; maintaining MARC records and metadata for library e-resources; integrating e-resource usage into circulation reporting; and managing electronic content acquisition and creation.
