Implementation of Electronic Resource Management System: A Case Study of Central Library, IIT Delhi

Abstract

The share of electronic resources in library subscriptions has been increasing over a period of time. Academic institutions worldwide spend significant amounts on electronic resources, including e-journals, databases, and eBooks. Global research indicates that the management of electronic resources is very complex, and the workflows associated with them differ from the workflow of print resources. Although electronic resources have been around for almost two decades, librarians are still trying to figure out the most effective way to handle them. The study suggests that many non-compatible stand-alone systems are used to manage electronic resources. Library Management Systems (LMS) and Library Services Platforms (LSPs) cannot manage electronic resource workflow. Electronic Resource Management Systems (ERMS) can be used to manage electronic resource workflow. However, cost is an important factor in not using commercial ERMS. This study examines the implementation of open-source ERMS CORAL in the Central Library, IIT Delhi. It discusses the steps involved in the implementation stages and the problems faced while implementing the system. It also discusses the features of CORAL. This study also finds improvements in electronic resource management after the implementation of ERMS CORAL. This study will be beneficial for those institutes that are looking for the implementation of CORAL.