Ryerson University Library wins Canadian technology prize

The Canadian Library Association / Association canadienne des bibliothèques (CLA) has announced that the 2013 recipient of the CLA/OCLC Award for Innovation Technology is Ryerson University Library for its RULA Book Finder application. The award, which is sponsored by OCLC Canada, is given in recognition of 'ground breaking and innovative use of technology to provide exceptional library service to their community members'.

The RULA Book Finder application is said to allow the Ryerson community to find and retrieve books with ease. This application provides the exact shelf location of items that are searched in the library’s catalogue, 'making the process of locating titles effortless for library patrons', according to the CLA.

The organisation said that the 'RULA Book Finder application offers a new and innovative way for library patrons to utilise library resources, greatly improving their success in using the library for their research needs. The substantial changes and impact made by this project are clear, and the benefits of this application will have a positive impact on the community in the long run.'

The CLA/OCLC Award for Innovative Technology is presented annually to honour a member or members of CLA for innovative use and application of technology in a Canadian library setting. The award will be presented at the closing ceremonies on 1 June during the CLA 2013 National Conference & Trade Show in Winnipeg, Manitoba at the Winnipeg Convention Centre, 29 May - 1 June, 2013.