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Abstract
Purpose - To develop an open-source remote patron authentication system to replace a problematic, proprietary vendor product.
Design/methodology/approach - Functional requirements were developed using the vendor product as a model with additional requirements determined by the libraries planning to use the application. Using PHP on Apache web server with a connection to our ILS database on Sybase, a flexible system that can be configured to the local libraries requirements was created.
Findings - Overall, the new system has been welcomed and the most widespread problems we encountered have been resolved. Most importantly though, using an in-house system empowers libraries to introduce enhancements and bug fixes as soon as possible and not rely on a vendor's schedule for doing so.
Research limitations/implications - A project like this would not be possible if the ILS database was proprietary and inaccessible from other, open-source technologies like PHP or the data structures were not published.
Practical implications - The remote patron authentication system is only one possible use of these technologies. Other applications using ILS data could be developed.
Originality/value - Using PHP with Apache and a connection to the ILS database, the necessary functionality was retained and added other features that improved reliability, configurability and cross-browser usage. By embracing this approach, the authors also retained control on its future development and improvement.
Keywords Library automation, Library networks
Paper type Technical paper
Introduction
Using open source technologies to improve to improve traditional services as well as develop alternatives to proprietary vendor products can empower libraries by giving them more control over the product's functionality. The Detroit Area Library Network (DALNET) has taken advantage of the HTML-embedded scripting language PHP to develop web applications to do just that. Most notably, a locally developed remote patron authentication system replaced the one provided by our ILS vendor.
Established in 1985, DALNET (www.dalnet.lib.mi.us) is a 22-member, multi-type library consortium. Academic, public, medical, museum and law libraries of varying sizes are all members of the consortium. Its primary purpose has traditionally been to provide an ILS to each member library and staff to support its operation. DALNET employs a staff of five, including a Director, Systems Analyst, two Systems Librarians and an Office Manager and is governed by a Board of Directors...