FOLIO (Future of Libraries Is Open) is a community-driven, open-source library services platform (LSP) that is transforming the library technology landscape. Moving beyond the limitations of traditional, proprietary Integrated Library Systems (ILS), FOLIO offers a modern, flexible, and extensible solution built for the digital era.
Key Features and Architectural Philosophy
The core strength of FOLIO lies in its innovative architecture and collaborative development model.
- Microservices Architecture: Unlike monolithic systems, FOLIO is built on a microservices architecture. This means the platform is composed of small, independent applications (or "apps") that work together. This modularity allows libraries to choose only the applications they need, swap out components, and integrate third-party services via open APIs, providing unprecedented flexibility and customization.
- Community Ownership and Direction: FOLIO is a genuine collaboration among libraries, developers, and vendors. The community-owned and directed approach ensures the platform's roadmap is driven by the actual needs and expectations of librarians and their users. Anyone can participate in the community, from contributing code to joining a Special Interest Group (SIG) to share functional expertise.
- Comprehensive Functionality: The platform supports all core library management functions, including:
- Acquisitions & Serials Management: Efficiently manage orders and serials check-ins.
- Cataloging: The Metadata Management SIG addresses current and emerging requirements for data models, supporting MARC, BIBFRAME, and linked data.
- Circulation: Streamlined processes for managing lending and returns.
- Electronic Resource Management (ERM): Robust tools for managing a library's e-collections.
- Reporting and Analytics: Tools for leveraging data to inform library services.
- Cloud-Native and Scalable: Built natively for the cloud, FOLIO is designed to be highly scalable and can be hosted locally or commercially by a service provider like EBSCO or ByWater Solutions.
Benefits for Libraries
The adoption of FOLIO has the potential to revolutionize library services by addressing common pain points associated with legacy systems.
- Flexibility and Innovation: The open-source model and microservices architecture foster continuous innovation. Libraries can develop or fund new apps to meet specific, evolving needs without being locked into a single vendor's development cycle.
- Affordability: The software itself is free to any library. Libraries only incur costs for commercial hosting, support, and implementation services if they choose to use them.
- User-Friendly Experience: Development focuses on intuitive, user-friendly workflows and interfaces for both library staff and patrons, leading to a better overall library experience.
- Interoperability: Open APIs allow seamless integration with existing systems, such as discovery services and interlibrary loan platforms, providing libraries with greater control over their technology stack.
The Future of Library Management
Libraries are increasingly moving from traditional, closed systems to more flexible Library Services Platforms (LSP). Institutions such as Cornell University Library have successfully migrated to FOLIO, citing its potential as a strong, community-led alternative to conventional proprietary systems.
As the library world continues to adjust to the shifting information landscape, FOLIO stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, offering a sustainable and future-proof platform for managing both print and electronic resources.
For more information and to get involved, visit the official FOLIO website.
