ProQuest to acquire Ex Libris

Share this on social media:

Information solutions provider ProQuest has agreed to acquire Ex Libris Group, a provider of library automation solutions. The capabilities of ProQuest and Ex Libris span expertise in print, electronic and digital content, as well as solutions for library management, discovery and research workflows.

The two companies say that bringing these complementary assets together will enable ProQuest and Ex Libris to enhance existing products and accelerate innovation of new services to quickly address some of libraries’ most pressing challenges: disparate workflows for print, electronic and digital resources, and navigation of complex and rapidly changing technology, content and user environments. The acquisition is expected to close in the coming months. 

'We are excited to have Ex Libris join ProQuest and welcome its proven track-record of innovation on behalf of libraries. One great example of their expertise in action is the success of Ex Libris’ Alma unified resource management solution in helping hundreds of institutions worldwide improve their libraries’ value to their users,' said Kurt Sanford, ProQuest CEO.  

'Together, the companies will build on and create more groundbreaking library services, bringing additional value to our customers and the broader industry.'

Matti Shem-Tov, Ex Libris CEO, said: 'The acquisition of Ex Libris by ProQuest enriches our commitment to the global library community and will enhance our ability to carry out our product roadmaps and strategies. The combined talent and expertise of ProQuest and Ex Libris will enable more efficient development and support of our leading solutions, and will accelerate innovation in both current and new products.

'We will identify opportunities to deliver the best of what both companies have to offer by expanding key features in resource management, knowledge base capabilities and discovery services to enhance existing products.'

The companies say they will continue their longstanding commitment to openness and collaborations with other organisations in the industry, including OCLC, Google, Gale Cengage, HARRASSOWITZ and YBP/EBSCO, for the benefit of customers.  
After closing, ProQuest and Ex Libris will form a distinct business unit called Ex Libris, a ProQuest Company. This unit will be led by Mr. Shem-Tov, and supported by the Ex Libris management team along with ProQuest Workflow Solutions management.

Visit the ProQuest blog here.