Last July, we launched the Alma Library Services Platform. While this launch was a big change for our public-facing search interfaces and digital archives, it was an even bigger change for our staff facing applications. The new system necessitated a dramatic adjustment to our staff workflows, with new processes for circulation, cataloging, reporting, managing electronic resources, and more. While it took some time to adapt, the new system has proven itself to be flexible, intuitive, and powerful. Moreover, it has given us a great foundation for continuous and future improvement to our workflows.

One example of the kinds of new changes Alma brought to our staff workflows is the recently launched Rialto ordering system. Rialto is a new integration that allows our Librarians to order print and eBooks directly from our Alma system from multiple vendors. eBooks purchased through Rialto may be activated within minutes or hours from purchase, and become immediately accessible to students and faculty upon activation. This system also allows us to set up Patron Driven Acquisition profiles, to offer greater patron choice in our collection development.

As you can see, launching Alma was just the start of this journey. Now that the dust has settled on this transition, and staff have become accustomed to the new system, we have the opportunity to explore new enhancements to other areas of our Library Services. As part of our new 3-year strategic plan, we will be using Alma to enhance and streamline our interlibrary loan services, library statistics, collection development, archives, institutional repository, and much more.

Originally posted in the Freeman/Lozier Library’s quarterly newsletter, More Than Books, V. 26 No. 4, Fall 2023.