Practical Open Source Software for Libraries

by Nicole C. Engard

Open source refers to an application whose source code is made available for use or modification as users see fit. This means libraries gain more flexibility and freedom than with software purchased with license restrictions. This clear and practical resource provides librarians with a complete guide to using open source software. Here Nicole C. Engard, one of Library Journal 's Movers & Shakers in 2007, debunks common open source software myths and provides an accessible introduction to its fundamental concepts. She focuses on the practical application of different open source tools including operating systems, office tools, web development, photo management, library management systems, digital libraries, and more. She uses real-life examples to help demonstrate effective use, and provides an accompanying companion website featuring an interactive toolbox packed with freely available open source products.

Genres: Library Science

269 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Nicole is the Vice President of Education at ByWater Solutions. In her over ten years in libraries she has dedicated herself to educating librarians about technologies both on her site web2learning.net and in person with a focus on open source. In 2010 she authored 'Practical Open Source Software for Libraries' and regularly writes for various library outlets about open source for libraries.

Reviews

[Danie van der Merwe · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book may be 7 years old but the principles around the use of open source software for libraries, archives, museums and other heritage collections are just as relevant today. Whilst I knew about the major library OPAC systems I did not know about some other systems such as Krete (collaborative archiving of digital material that can include the community).

Although 7 years old it is still recommended reading for any librarian or archivist purely from the point of view of opening their eyes to what is freely available from their colleagues around the world. And yes there may already be some newer systems available, but we would never know if we did not read a book like this.