Free or not for free...

The only open source software that I am aware that I have used is OpenOffice. And I can definitely see the benefits for both individual and library use. That fact that these types of resources are available for free is an immense benefit. Especially when we consider the increase in budget reductions libraries are often faced with.

But I think we need to err on the side of caution with OSS as well. Just because something is free, we shouldn’t all rush out and convert. The old adage, ‘you get what you pay for’ rings a little too true. Oftentimes there are compatibility issues that cause more problems for people and organizations and result in a greater loss of money, time and energy than the use of ‘purchased’ software would. There are ways around many of the issues of compatibility but it often does require a more in-depth knowledge of the programme and/or a little extra time and training.

Having programming code that is open to anyone allows for the opportunity for continual enhancement and upgrades. And I really like the idea of being able to access these updates without investing too much time or money. However, if something seems too good to be true…..it usually is. I think that OSS has it niche but I am wary of thrusting my individual or library’s needs wholly and directly into its arms.

Content Enrichment in the ILS

Less is more?? Not always. When considering content enriched MARC records I say, “Go big or go home!” And why not?! Today library’s have to compete with the ever increasing amount of information that is freely and easily accessible on the web. Major book distributors such as amazon have already began offering added browsing features such as reviews and even a “look inside” feature that allows patron to electronically browse the contents of their books. I’ll be the first to admit that I prefer browsing the amazon website when completing an acquisition list for my library due to these available features. I can easily find new books, read reviews on them and actually browse through many selections without leaving the comfort of my computer screen! (And let me tell you, when you work in an isolated community in the Canadian Arctic, this is an incredible advantage!)

If library systems are able to enrich their content with this type of similar information and resources, I see it as a huge advantage. Let’s face it, today’s society is obsessed with having information available at their fingertips IMMEDIATELY. Anything we can do as a library to provide that to our patrons is essential. I myself, light up a little when I import MARC records that contain a cover photo of the book! And it has in fact made my own work a little easier. When a patron is checking out materials, I now have a visual cue to assist in the identification of the item and it certainly speeds the circulation process along. It also aids the process of book retrieval as content enrichment allows me to determine that what I am looking for is appropriate and already shows me what it looks like.

To me, the answer is obvious….bigger is definitely better!