Plano Independent School District integrates libraries with open-source

LibLime, a library solution provider, said on Tuesday that its Koha ZOOM software was chosen to integrate libraries across 68 campuses in the Plano school district.

In addition, LibLime is responsible for the data migration of their current collection of over 1 million items.

"We planned to upgrade or replace our current library automation system during the 2008-09 school year due to its announced end of life in terms of future enhancements." says David Schuster, Library Technology Coordinator for the school district.

"After evaluating existing proprietary library systems along with a variety of open-source options, Koha ZOOM became the obvious choice due to its flexibility and promise of long-term development and support," says Learning Media Services Director Diane Lutz.

Open-source software is developed and maintained by an online community of programmers around the world. It is typically less expensive than proprietary software, but can lack the support found with traditional commercial applications.

"The decision to seek out a web- based, open-source automation system was in line with our district's desire to use open-source whenever available," stated Mary Hewett, the district's Executive Director for Instructional Technology.