Developed requirements for an integrated library system. The project included providing a set of "starter requirements" appropriate for this library system and working with focus groups to finalize and prioritize the requirements. The final requirements list will be utilized in a forthcoming RFP. Working in partnership with Quipu Group.
Projects and Clients
September 2011 - February 2012
August, 2011 - March, 2012
The Illinois Library Association had been leading an effort to provide for cost-effective solutions to the changing library landscape in Illinois. After nine regional systems were merged into two (RAILS, and IHLS), they hired The Galecia Group to provide an analysis about how best to go forward with merging the delivery operations from each of the nine regions and to share best practices.
The study began with numerous interviews with stakeholders including attending the Illinois Library Association Annual Conference where Ayre attended meetings and presented library delivery best practices. Following the ILS conference, data was gathered in several areas: costs, how services were coordinated, the role of the ILS, transportation and route optimization, trucks and other equipment, materials handling and logistics, and sorting.
Following a thorough analysis of the data, a draft report was prepared. The draft report and recommendations were presented to stakeholders in each region (IHLS, RAILS as well as Chicago Public) and feedback was gathered. This feedback informed the Final Report (also attached below).
April 21, 2011
KCLS and libraries across the nation are facing many new pressures that push against core values and services. The confluence of fiscal, demographic, and technological changes is creating new challenges and opportunities for reviewing, redefining, and enhancing the services and delivery methods KCLS offers while remaining true to core values.
In order to broaden the breadth of ideas and to tap into the creativity of library staff, the Foundation and other stakeholders, KCLS leadership decided to hold a half-day workshop for the purpose of generating ideas for technology projects that would enhance services to patrons. The library enlisted key staff as well as members of the Foundation to participate in a half day Technology Summit. Lori Ayre, Library Technology Consultant, was asked to provide background materials and context to the day as well as facilitate the process of generating ideas and helping to prioritize them.
The Technology Summit was held on April 21, 2011 from 9am to 1pm. The stated purpose was to identify and prioritize a slate of technology projects that would augment KCLS’ service objectives.
The Final Report (PDF attached) describes the purpose, process, and outcome of this half day workshop.
April 2011 - current
Developing procurement strategy for replacing current resource-sharing product (SirsiDynix URSA) being used for the Massachusetts Virtual Catalog with state-of-the art discovery and interlibrary loan product (including open source and proprietary options). Working in partnership with Quipu Group.
2009-current
Helped establish and currently managing the Open Source Open Libraries Consortium in cooperation with Peninsula Library System and Califa. The goal of the consortia is to "empower libraries and library consortia by encouraging participation and collaboration in software products generally, and encouraging them to consider an Open Source Library System such as Koha or Evergreen."
2009-current
Assisting KCLS in implementation of IMLS grant entitled Empowered By Open Source. The goal of the project is "create and develop the critical infrastructure components that have traditionally been provided by ILS vendors and establish a peer-to-peer support model for open source libraries.”
2009-2011
Assisted with development of RFI/RFP to implement central, automated sort for all Massachusetts regional systems. Assisted with research, RFI and then RFP development, evaluation, and procurement. The project is a follow-up to the delivery evaluation performed in 2008.
2009-2010
Conducted materials handling and collection management analysis. The project addressed space shortage issues, materials handling workload, how to reduce turnaround time and expand services, and ways to improve central delivery and sorting. The analysis will also included a comparison of RFID versus bar codes solutions and provide suggestions for how to implement AMH solutions into their libraries.
2009
Evaluated staffing requirements for system office of MARINet, an organization providing shared catalog (and other services) for six libraries.
2008-2010
Conducted materials handling and collection management analysis. Provided recommendations related to interlibrary delivery, sorting, materials processing, and alternative ways of connecting customers with library material.
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