Advanced eCourse: Understanding and Managing Your Integrated Library System

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An ALA Continuing Education and SJSU iSchool Advanced eCourse

The Integrated Library System (ILS) is the core technology that governs services in most libraries. Most library staff positions involve interaction with the ILS, and many of them involve administration of the system. Knowledge of ILS is not optional in today’s library.

In this 12-week advanced eCourse, Dr. Timothy J. Dickey, a library technologist and instructor at the SJSU iSchool, will introduce you to the variety of technology applications with a focus on successful management of the modern ILS. This course is designed for everyone who wants an overview of trends, technologies, and options of this core library technology.

Learners will explore the history and current state of the ILS, looking at traditional architecture and extensions to the software to encompass the breadth of our streaming content, resource sharing, and mobile apps. The course will conclude with an overview of some practical considerations for selecting, procuring, and managing a new ILS system for your library. Course materials, discussions, and activities will center on successful applications of library technologies; how librarians are already using these tools to meet the 21st-century information needs of our users; and how to identify and obtain the best library technology to meet the needs of your patrons and users. 

This advanced eCourse is designed for practicing librarians and library managers at all levels who find themselves needing to better understand the core Integrated Library System (ILS) technology and its management.

By participating in this course, learners will:

  • Understand the history and current state of integrated library systems and the vendor landscape. 
  • Gain an understanding of technology (software and cloud technologies) and industry standards and their importance in the field. 
  • Evaluate the current and potential use for libraries of technologies that expand the traditional ILS functionality such as discovery layers, open-source systems, e-books and other streaming content, and mobile applications. 
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the underlying concepts and issues of ILS procurement and library technology management.

eCourse Outline

Module 1: Overview of Basic Integrated Library Systems: Functions & Architecture

  • Week 1: History of library automation and the vendor landscape
  • Week 2: Introduction to ILS modules
  • Week 3: Usability and user experience design
  • Week 4: Information silos and discovery layers
    • Optional Implementation Report

Module 2: Beyond the ILS: Additions and Expansions

  • Week 5: Cloud computing and browser-based interfaces
  • Week 6: Networks and mobile apps
  • Week 7: Streaming content
  • Week 8: Library Services Platform
    • Optional Library Technology Vendor Review

Module 3: Buying and Implementing the ILS

  • Week 9: Current needs analysis
  • Week 10: Internal research and documentation
  • Week 11: The RFP document
  • Week 12: Training and competencies
    • Optional Request for Proposal (RFP)

Dr. Timothy Dickey is an Adult Services Librarian with the Columbus (OH) Metropolitan Library and a library science instructor on the faculties of San José State University, Kent State University, and the Catholic University of America. He teaches courses in library technology; reference and research methods; and music and humanities librarianship. He also has worked as a Post-Doctoral Researcher for the OCLC Office of Research. He was the 2022 recipient of the ALA-RUSA Margaret E. Monroe Award for Library Adult Services.

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact us at  ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.

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