In July 2020, CUNY will implement a new library services platform (LSP), Alma, which encompasses a suite of applications. Data in Aleph will need to be migrated to Alma and library staff will have to be trained in the new system environment.
Our contract with Aleph, our current integrated libraries system (ILS), is expiring. Aleph was designed for libraries to manage their print collections. Alma (along with our existing discovery layer, Primo, branded as "OneSearch" at CUNY) will allow our libraries to better manage print materials, digital collections and other formats, and improve our efficiencies through shared services and cloud opportunities and provide local and system-wide analytic capabilities.
In order to begin preparation for the migration, Kevin Collins has already been working with libraries’ technical services and circulation staffs about optimizing catalog data. Also, as this project will require input and commitment from across the CUNY system, if you are asked to serve on a committee, working group, or task force, please make every effort to do so and to be actively engaged in the group’s work.
An Ex Libris product, Alma supports library operating tasks including acquisitions, electronic resource management (ERM), cataloging, fulfillment, and assessment. Alma is used by library staff whereas OneSearch will remain the public interface.
No, Alma will be the staff-side version of the new library system and OneSearch will be the public interface of the new library system. Aleph will be available for reference purposes for one month after migration, as per contractual requirements.
Our installation of SFX, an OpenURL link resolver, will be decommissioned after the Alma implementation in July 2020. Alma has a built-in link resolver.
Serials Solutions 360 Core, which manages each library’s journal A to Z list, will no longer be needed. Alma contains a built-in holdings management system.
No, BrowZine can work with Alma’s built-in holdings management system.
The Institution Zone contains any bibliographic records not shared for editing purposes with the consortia members in the Network Zone. It also contains all inventory records (holdings & items) for the institution.
The Network Zone is a shared bibliographic database. One bib record can be shared for editing by all of the participating institutions.
The Community Zone is a shared repository for all Alma users. It includes authority records, bibliographic metadata, and an electronic materials knowledge base.
Please contact your library's representative on the LSP Communications Committee. If they can't help you, please open a work order by emailing service.desk@cuny.edu and asking your question(s) there.
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