Using Open Source in Your Library

Open-source technology is broadly adopted in a variety of contexts and has long since proven its value in many technology environments. With their significant advantages, open-source technologies can allow community priorities to be addressed, flexibility for implementers, community interactions and support, as well as potential cost savings. There are challenges, costs, and potential pitfalls posed by an open-source approach as well. Understanding the benefits, risks, costs, and opportunities is vital to determining the best option to choose in selecting a solution to large-scale software management.

During this virtual conference, we will explore the variety of decision points regarding an open-source investment to ensure a successful implementation. The session will cover investments necessary in staffing and technology resources, as well as legal issues to consider. We will cover integration issues, collaboration, and support networks that can either hinder or propel a project's realization. Case studies of open-source successes and disappointments will be described.

Confirmed Speakers and Topics:

• The Open Source Landscape
  Beth Camden, Director, Information Processing Division, Van Pelt-Dietrich Library, University of Pennsylvania
• Working On Open Source Projects In Academic Environments
  Maureen P. Walsh, Associate Professor and Institutional Repository Services Librarian, The Ohio State University
• The Real Costs of Free Software
  Demian Katz, Library Technology Development Specialist, Villanova University
• Supporting Services and Care
  Galen Charlton, Vice President, Data Services, Equinox; Lori Bowen Ayre, Library Technology Consultant, The Galecia Group.
• Yes, It Can Be Done! Library Case Study I: VIVO, an Open Source Research Networking System: A Case Study at the Scripps Research Institute
  Brian Lowe, Scripps Research Institute
• Yes, It Can Be Done! Library Case Study II
  Ursula Pieper, National Agricultural Library, U.S. Department of Agriculture
• Yes, It Can Be Done! Libraries and the Long Now: Practices of the Project Hydra Digital
  Bess Sadler, Stanford University Library Manager for Application Development, Stanford University Library Community

NEW! All registrants to this virtual conference will receive a login to the associated Training Thursday on GitHub: How to Use it to Greatest Effect, to be held on February 25. (Separate registration to the training event only is also available.) If you are unable to attend the Training Thursday in person, you can view the recording of the session.

For more information and to register, visit the event page.