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Open Source ILS Initiative

If your library is considering changing your Integrated Library System (ILS) within the next three years, the Indiana State Library and the Hussey Mayfield Memorial Public Library (Zionsville) invites you to join us in investigating the feasibility of adopting an open source ILS for Indiana libraries. We are currently embarking on a statewide initiative, piloted by Hussey Mayfield, to develop an effective open source ILS solution for Indiana libraries that will operate somewhat like the model currently being used by most public libraries in the State of Georgia called "Evergreen".

Evergreen was developed using open source software by the Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS). Software development on the open source ILS began in June 2004 and on September 5, 2006 all Georgia PINES libraries migrated to Evergreen. It debuted with Online Catalog, Circulation, Cataloging, and Reports, and all transactions, customer records, and online catalog records were migrated from the former system. Evergreen is an enterprise-class library automation system that helps library patrons find library materials, and helps libraries manage, catalog, and circulate those materials, no matter how large or complex the libraries. Evergreen software is:

- Stable, even under extreme load.
- Robust, and capable of handling a high volume of transactions and simultaneous users.
- Flexible, to accommodate the varied needs of libraries.
- Secure, to protect our patrons' privacy and data.
- User-friendly, to facilitate patron and staff use of the system.
- Freely licensed open source software.

The State Library will make available LSTA funding to launch and sustain this statewide open source ILS. Indiana Libraries of all types and sizes are encouraged to investigate the benefits of open source ILS’ and apply for grants.

Evergreen Resources:
Evergreen - Press Release
Presentation from Hussey Mayfield at the ILF Annual Conference – 11/15/2007
Presentation from PINES at the Indiana State Library – 8/30/2007
Internet resources about open source integrated library system software, product demos, and installation instructions.

For more information about the State Library’s open source ILS initiative and corresponding LSTA grants, please contact the Library Development Office.