FOLIO ERM: All-in-One Solution for Electronic Resource Management

FOLIO ERM (Electronic Resource Management) is an innovative tool designed to streamline library operations in an increasingly digital world. Developed with insights from SaaS experts from EBSCO’s international teams across West Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, FOLIO ERM addresses the growing challenges of managing electronic and physical resources seamlessly. This blog summarizes the highlights from interviews with experts who provided valuable perspectives on FOLIO ERM’s transformative capabilities.

What is FOLIO?

As Peter Kung, Vice President, Greater China, Japan, Mongolia explained, FOLIO—short for “The Future of Libraries Is Open”—is an open-source library service platform established by the Open Library Foundation in 2016. It represents a paradigm shift from traditional Integrated Library Systems (ILS), focusing on open collaboration and innovation to help libraries adapt to changing needs. Unlike legacy systems that primarily supported physical collections, FOLIO integrates electronic and physical resources, ensuring a future-ready solution for libraries.

• Improved Efficiency
  Joseph Mhanna, SaaS Innovation Specialist, Middle East & North Africa, shared that first-time users of FOLIO ERM report significant improvements in managing their electronic resource lifecycle. By automating routine tasks, the platform reduces the pressure on librarians and allows them to focus on strategic priorities. This streamlined approach benefits institutions of all sizes
   
• Phased Implementation for Flexibility
  Peter Kung emphasized the need for phased implementation. Libraries with limited budgets or manpower can gradually adopt FOLIO ERM while maintaining compatibility with existing systems. Over time, they can transition to the full suite of FOLIO services without major disruptions, providing an adaptable and cost-effective solution
   
• Regional Customization
  Seonghoon Kim, Library Service Engineer in Korea highlighted the importance of tailored features. For instance, in Korea, APIs were developed to enhance database searches and integrate agreement and license information into user-facing tools. These regional adaptations ensure that FOLIO ERM meets the unique needs of diverse libraries worldwide

How long does it take to implement FOLIO ERM?
According to Seonghoon Kim, implementing FOLIO ERM typically takes 12 weeks. However, additional time may be needed for localization and customization to ensure the solution aligns with specific institutional requirements.

What features set FOLIO ERM apart?
FOLIO ERM is packed with innovative tools that enhance usability and functionality:

• Data-driven APIs: Enable features like database recommendations and search enhancements.
• License integration: Supports advanced functionalities, such as facilitating paper submissions in transformative agreements.

These features make FOLIO ERM not just a management tool but a platform that enhances the end-user experience.

What makes FOLIO unique as open-source software?
As Peter Kung explained, while FOLIO’s core software is freely available, most libraries prefer partnering with service providers like EBSCO for implementation, maintenance, and customization. This ensures a high-quality deployment tailored to institutional needs while preserving the collaborative ethos of open-source technology.

How does FOLIO ensure quality for cloud-based services?
Joseph Mhanna highlighted EBSCO’s robust operations team, including certified AWS engineers. They manage updates, patches, and security while offering responsive customer support. With the largest team of librarians employed by any library vendor, EBSCO ensures seamless service delivery that aligns with library-specific needs.

FOLIO ERM redefines library resource management by bridging the gaps left by older systems. Unlike traditional ILS platforms that focused on physical collections, FOLIO offers a scalable and adaptable solution that integrates electronic resources to enhance both librarian workflows and reader experiences. As Peter Kung noted, it represents the only open, extensible platform capable of supporting both physical and electronic resources in a unified system.

FOLIO ERM is more than just a tool—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. Developed with input from EBSCO’s international SaaS experts, it empowers libraries to excel in the digital-first era. By combining open-source flexibility with professional support, FOLIO ERM provides a transformative solution for libraries worldwide.