March 12, 2012
The automation system I chose to research is the Alexandria
for K-12 Schools. For the past two years, this system has been used at our
middle school. One of the nice components of Alexandria is it compatible with
Windows and Macintosh computers. This system is our main Library management
program and is also used at the high school level. The library uses the program
for database information, collections of material in the library, and card
cataloging.
Some of the strengths within program is the backup capability,
updates are frequent, due date and policy flexibility, supports our use of
Accelerated Reader, and the Lexile integration. This system also allows one to
run reports while circulating. After visiting with our librarian, she stated
one of things she really likes about this program is the Tech Support because
it is manned by Librarians.
One weakness is that every once and awhile the updates are
coming through incorrectly. However, Alexandria is on top of the situation and
is usually taken care of before our librarian sends out the help request. After
some discussion with our current librarian she stated she could not think of
any other weaknesses.
As stated earlier, the middle school has used this program
for the past two years and finds it work well in our library setting. She
stated that the visual aspect of the system is great—the students are able to
see what the books actually look like and can hit detail to gain further
information about the book. Easy access to the AR tests for the students. She
also stated that the Student Profile was easily accessible and the picture attached
of the students creates successful flowing library. As for now, there have been
no problems with this system.
After some discussion on statistical reports she stated that
she runs circ states, and only some collection analysis through this system because
of purchasing many books over the years through Follet, and they have all
information already so she uses their collection analysis. The reports she runs
are used for overdue books, library cards, spine labels, and bar codes.
As for changing this system, she stated she does not seeing
this happen for quite awhile. With budget cuts and the success with the program
now, we will not be changing anytime soon.
Please everyone follow this new blog that has been created.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the review -- having librarians for support is a huge advantage because you can speak the same lingo as your support contacts.
The problem with depending on follet for collection analysis is that they will tell you what you need to buy -- from them. Trusting one company to tell you what you need to buy (from them) is an inherently biased system and using your automation system in addition to your follet sales rep is a good idea.
It would be like going to State Farm and asking them to look at what I already have and make suggestions for what I need. It's a good idea to do it sometimes, but they will always have more things that I "need" and they will always be able to sell me that very thing that I need.
Having said that, Follet collection analysis does seem to be pretty good and State Farm is pretty good too. However, neither of them will ever say, "You really already have more than you need," and they will definitely never say, "You really are missing something, but it's something that you'll have to buy from someone else."
How true, never thought of it that way. --However, I believe our librarian uses the two systems together.
ReplyDeleteVal, Thank you for your report. It sound like your Middle School has found a system that is a good fit for the library. With the economy situation and tight budgets, it makes sense that it would be unfeasible to think of changing the system anytime soon. What system do you use for your inventory? I believe, all of the schools in Bozeman use Follett-Destiny for their circulation and cataloging of all materials. They use it for the inventory as well. After Anne's comments about not having your main vendor be the one to perform collection analysis, I see why the schools here remain diversified. I know that one of the Elementary schools uses iPage and not Follett as their main source for analyzing books. The middle school uses a variety of vendors and sources for acquiring books. Thanks for your insights. Judy
DeleteAlexandria is a good system -- update glitches are a problem, but I think they are a problem with all of the systems!
ReplyDeleteWow, I love that the help desk for this system is staffed by librarians - this may be true of Follett Destiny though I've never heard it said.
ReplyDeleteI'd never thought of using someone other than your vendor to do the collection analysis. In fact, didn't know it was possible.
Big plus that the system can be used on a PC and/or a MAC. Ann, does this mean it is not web-based?