Ex Libris will deliver unified resource management and unified discovery through a cloud-based deployment 

The University of Applied Sciences Zwickau (WHZ) has become the fifth library of the Southwest German Library Network (SWB) to select Alma, the next generation library management system from Ex Libris. The need to respond to changing user expectations, the increasing use of e-resources, and the flexible acquisition functionality in Alma were the key reasons for their choice.

Last week I spoke to Reingard Al-Hassan, director of the WHZ Library, about their decision: “We have noticed a considerable change in the expectations and characteristics of users over the past years. Since 2013, database searches have increased threefold and access to digital resources has risen by 50%, whilst print loans have dramatically decreased. We need a library system which will help us to further develop our style of management and enable us to deal efficiently and effectively with these trends. Alma will do exactly this and much more, providing us with insightful analytics to assist with budgeting and a cooperative network to assist us in our mission. Additionally, Alma will considerably reduce the administrative workload on staff and thereby enable them to spend more time on supporting the research activities of our users. We very much look forward to seeing the benefits Alma will bring to the WHZ.”

Ullrich Jüngling, VP Sales Central- East & Southeast Europe, told me how pleased he that the University of Applied Sciences Zwickau has chosen Alma after an intensive evaluation and a Europe-wide tender: “Five institutions in Saxony have now chosen our innovative solution, which is a clear indication of support for the strategic vision for libraries articulated in Alma.”