Improving patron services through the Alma Resource Sharing models

Abstract

The Connecticut State Colleges & University System went live in our implementation of Alma in January 2017. Ex Libris offers two models of resource sharing in the Alma product: the Resource Sharing Network and the Fulfillment Network. As part of the migration, the decision was made to implement the Fulfillment Network model for resource sharing between the member institutions. While this has enabled patron access to resources across the system, it is not without its challenges to the user experience, and to staff workflow. This presentation will discuss the opportunities and challenges of this resource sharing model, our workarounds, and suggestions for product improvement. Additionally, we will discuss how recently released Alma features have improved the usability of the product.