Open University selects Ex Libris service

The Open University (OU) in the UK has selected the Ex Libris Alma library management service and the Primo discovery and delivery solution to provide unified resource management and discovery.

The Open University also selected the bX Recommender, a user-facing service that presents article recommendations based on the usage data of millions of users around the world. This suite of integrated products will support the library’s commitment to ensuring that its technology framework meets the needs of users both now and in the future.
 
'As The Open University Library’s collection consists largely of e-resources, we wanted to improve our users' experience by ensuring easier access to online material,' said Nicky Whitsed, director of library services. 'Together with enhancing the discovery experience by offering a one-stop search interface via Primo, we were keen to improve the efficiency of library operations.

'Alma provides cross-collection workflows within a flexible system that easily integrates with other library and external systems used by The Open University. The Ex Libris solutions that we have adopted will help the library support the OU’s strategic aims whilst enabling our institution to keep pace with changes in higher education.'
 
Christoph Frech, regional sales director for northern and western Europe, said: 'Primo will enable The Open University to provide its distance learning users with quick and easy access to resources from wherever they are.

'At the same time, Alma will empower the Library in making evidence-based decisions and streamline workflows, thus ensuring that the library collection reflects the changing needs of its diverse user community. These solutions from Ex Libris will make The Open University Library systems fit for purpose long into the future.'