Library automation solutions provider Ex Libris Group has announced that WHELF - a consortium of all the Welsh University Libraries, as well as the National Library of Wales and the Welsh NHS Libraries - has selected the Ex Libris Alma unified resource management service and the Ex Libris Primo discovery and delivery solution to deliver a new bilingual shared library system for Wales.
Members of the WHELF consortium currently employ a variety of standalone library management systems and several different discovery systems. With the selection of Ex Libris as a single provider, the Consortium will have the opportunity to deliver a single cloud-based next-generation library system, delivered on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis.
The WHELF Consortium adopted the Alma and Primo next-generation solutions following a rigorous selection and assessment process. Provided as a cloud-based SaaS solution, Alma automates and streamlines library operations across all workflows and resource types, from acquisitions and metadata management to digitization, cataloguing, and advanced fulfillment services.
The sophisticated Primo search and ranking technology, intuitive browsing options, and support for serendipitous discovery enable users to easily find and seamlessly access the resources they need. Content neutral and flexible, Primo empowers libraries to tailor the discovery experience to their own user community.
The 10 member libraries of WHELF are Aberystwyth University, Bangor University, Swansea University, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Glyndwr University, the National Library of Wales, Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, the University of South Wales and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, plus the Welsh NHS Libraries represented through the AWHILES Consortium.
