LIBERO User Group 2012, Nowra NSW

The latest release of LIBERO – a Library Management System used by over 140 Australian public libraries and 450 customers worldwide – was launched at the Annual National User Group in Nowra last week.

Available to supported customers at no charge, LIBERO 6.2.2 contains over 120 new features and enhancements.

6.2.2 already offers a series of new features to specifically improve the management of electronic content such as eBooks, Audio Books and database subscriptions, following a Development Group Meeting last month.

“In the lead-up to our ERM Development Group, we found 82% of customers had experienced a significant increase in electronic content at their library in the last 24 months1,” said LIBERO’s Director Sam Patane.

“Therefore, we’ve included new data fields, and means to link, attach and synchronise Records in LIBERO 6.2.2 to improve the management of this type of material,” he said.

Another highlight that excited User Group delegates is an interactive turnstile of cover images in the LIBERO WebOPAC. Librarians can implement this ‘Carousel’ feature for the library’s new releases, recommended titles or search results for users searching the catalogue.

“As web applications, touchscreens and interaction with services all change, it’s important that we deliver libraries functionality that provides new ways to engage people in content – and in ways they’ve become attuned to,” said Patane.

“I believe this feature is just another example of how LIBERO effectively leverages developments in web-based technology and information management to satisfy emerging customer expectations.”

LIBERO’s WiDGET has also received significant enhancements in 6.2.2 to increase the appeal of mobile library services to users.

“Recent research shows more than 75 per cent of Australians own a smartphone-and 38 per cent own a tablet device. WiDGET provides librarians a critical means of connecting with these users to deliver a contextual, ‘of the moment’ library services to boost patronage,” said Patane.

Statistics:

  1. LIBERO ERM Customer Survey – August 2012
  2. Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) 2012 Australian Mobile Phone Lifestyle Index (AMPLI) http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/437620/smartphone_tablet_adoption_accelerates_aimia_survey/
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