
Shared nationwide library system Kotui primed for upgrade.
A shared national library information system called Kotui and operated by the National Library is coming up for replacement.
The current service is provided by a consortium including Spark-owned CCL for hosting; a system to manage a library’s physical items provided by SirsiDynix; a search facility across a library’s physical and electronic items provided by EBSCO, and; the New Zealand based support and administrative function for the Kōtui service, provided by The National Library.
The Kōtui service helps the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) meet its obligations under the National Library Act, a notice of intent published this week explained.
"The Kōtui consortia provides New Zealand public libraries with affordable, efficient library management software and a seven-day service desk to help them manage their collections.
"The service also includes functionality for library users that would otherwise have been unaffordable to many councils."
The existing arrangement for a shared system and services runs until 2021, but DIA will be seeking expressions of interest in
"We’re going out for a world-class solution that would meet our requirements by providing Kōtui with enhanced features, services and at a competitive price for the consortia."
Thirty-nine NZ local authorities currently use the system in their libraries.
Expressions of interest will be sought from potential providers to allow an initial evaluation of their suitability.