Next Monday will be a red letter day for the Missouri State University Libraries. If all goes as planned several important things will happen:

• New Systems Go Live: The Missouri State University Libraries, in partnership with EBSCO, one of the leading providers of research databases, e-journals, e-books, and discovery services to libraries, has undertaken a major project to upgrade its fundamental information systems. 

  Because the foundation of this project will be a new open-source software platform called FOLIO (the Future Of Libraries Is Open), and because the MSU Libraries will be one of the first libraries in the world to fully implement FOLIO with EBSCO, the project is being called First FOLIO at Missouri State.

  Four information systems are being implemented:

  1. FOLIO: A new, open-source Libraries Services Platform (LSP). The FOLIO platform is extensible, supporting traditional resource management, but focused on the ability to deliver new services. With open source systems, libraries benefit from more choice, more innovative technology, and lower costs.
  2. EDS (EBSCO Discovery Service): A single search box discovery interface that enables users to search across multiple e-resources and locally digitized content quickly and seamlessly. EDS will serve as the primary interface to most of the library’s information resources, both print and electronic. 
  3. OpenAthens: A standards-based, simple, single sign-on system for managing identity and access to digital resources.
  4. E-Resource Management (ERM): A software tool used by library faculty and staff, as well as by content producers and vendors, to manage, assess, and improve e-resource content and services, as well as to monitor and control costs. 

Throughout the coming days, weeks, and months we will be working to fine-tune these new systems so that we can better serve our users. 

• Meyer Library opens for weekdays for the first time since mid-March: All users of the building will need to use their BearPass card to enter through the main entrance on the south side of the building, near the fountain. During the Summer Session, which also begins on Monday, Meyer Library will be open on weekdays from 9:00 to 6:00. Only the First Level will be open for use. Access to the materials and services on the other levels, including the Testing Center, Special Collections and Archives, and many others, will be available only by appointment or with an escort. Wearing a face mask is strongly recommended, and required when in the Open Access Testing Center and the MSU Testing Center.