In 2025, Rapido reached a new level of scale, connecting users to resources across a rapidly expanding global community of libraries. What was once an emerging approach to resource sharing is now a proven, high-performance network delivering fast, reliable access to materials at scale.
Across the Ex Libris resource sharing ecosystem, including Rapido, RapidILL, and Alma, more than 5.5 million requests were processed over the course of the year.
And the momentum continues into 2026, with new institutions joining and strengthening the network even further.
A network built for scale
Behind every request is a promise: fast, reliable access to needed resources. In 2025, Rapido consistently delivered on that promise.
- A 96.4% digital fill rate demonstrates how effectively libraries are meeting user demand for electronic resources: quickly and seamlessly.
- A 90% physical fill rate shows that even traditional formats are moving efficiently through the network.
- 95% of requests are filled by the first lender, significantly reducing turnaround time and staff intervention.
Together, these numbers show a system that delivers consistently, at scale, with speed and predictability.
Designed for efficiency, adopted by users
Rapido’s impact isn’t only measured in fulfillment rates, it’s also reflected in how naturally it fits into library workflows and user behavior.
- 81% of requests are submitted via the Rapido offer tile, showing that users are increasingly discovering and choosing Rapido directly within their research experience.
- 85% of fulfilled requests are completed within the network, reinforcing the strength and self-sufficiency of the Rapido community.
This is where the real transformation happens: not just faster delivery, but a shift toward streamlined, user-driven access with less friction for both patrons and library staff.
When asked about what is driving libraries to adopt Rapido, Laura Ramos, Resource Sharing & Collection Maintenance Unit Manager at Oregon State University, explained:
“Ease of single sign on is significant for our users and for staff. Not having to maintain a connection to another system for identity management and authentication frees everyone’s time.
Also, the cost savings due to less software and hardware maintenance and staff time is significant during a time of recurring budgetary cuts/constraints. We redesigned our workflows, which may reduce the level of staffing needed.
Last, the pod approach appealed to us because it means we all have the same lending frameworks.”
A growing community of over 900 institutions
Rapido and RapidILL now connect more than 900 institutions actively using the network worldwide, all contributing to, and benefiting from, a shared resource network.
At the same time, Rapido operates within a broader Ex Libris ecosystem of over 2,500 institutions, creating powerful opportunities for collaboration, discovery, and fulfillment across systems.
Each new institution strengthens the network:
- Expanding available collections
- Increasing fulfillment speed
- Improving success rates across regions
This is the network effect in action: the more the community grows, the more value every member receives.
Strong momentum in North America, and beyond
The beginning of 2026 is already building on this foundation, with continued global adoption.
In North America, the University of Manitoba is among the latest institutions to join the Rapido community, alongside a growing number of universities across both Canada and the United States. This reflects accelerating momentum and strong demand for a scalable, modern approach to resource sharing.
As Wei Xuan, Associate University Librarian at the University of Manitoba Libraries, shared:
“Rapido was the clear choice for the University of Manitoba Libraries because it integrates so seamlessly with our existing Alma and Primo environments. We needed a solution that would streamline complex resource-sharing workflows for our staff, while simultaneously providing our students and faculty with a frictionless, highly intuitive borrowing experience.”
At the same time, Rapido and RapidILL continue to expand globally, with new institutions joining across Japan, Indonesia, Colombia, the UK, and Israel, representing a clear signal that this model is resonating with libraries worldwide.
Looking ahead
Rapido’s growth in 2025, and its strong start to 2026, highlight a clear shift in resource sharing: toward network-driven, user-centered, and highly efficient access.
With millions of requests already fulfilled and a growing global community behind it, Rapido is not just scaling, it’s redefining what libraries can expect from resource sharing.
