Looking to understand the systems behind modern libraries? This FAQ covers the essential terminology and technology used in today’s digital libraries and information centers. Whether you’re new to library automation or comparing Library Management Systems (LMS) and Integrated Library Systems (ILS), you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions here.
A Library Management System is software used to organize, track, and manage a library’s operations. It automates core tasks such as cataloging, circulation, user management, and reporting. An LMS is essential for managing both physical collections (like books and DVDs) and digital resources (like eBooks and online databases). It improves efficiency, accuracy, and user experience – whether in academic, corporate, or special libraries.
An Integrated Library System (ILS), also known as an Integrated Library Management System (ILMS), brings together all key library services – cataloguing, acquisitions, circulation, user records, and reporting – into a single, cohesive platform. It supports seamless workflows and provides a centralized view of the entire collection, making it easier for staff to manage resources and for users to discover them.
Modern ILS platforms offer comprehensive features, including:
These features support efficient library operations and improve access for users.
A discovery layer is an advanced search interface that allows users to find all library resources -books, eBooks, journals, databases, and media-through one search. It offers features like predictive text, relevance ranking, and grouped results by format. Discovery layers simplify access and improve user satisfaction by unifying search across multiple content sources.
A digital library is an online platform that provides access to electronic resources such as eBooks, audiobooks, journal articles, research papers, and videos. Digital libraries are accessible 24/7 and support remote learning, research, and collaboration. They’re ideal for institutions supporting hybrid work, online education, or global access to information.
A digital repository is a secure system for preserving, managing, and sharing digital assets such as theses, research data, corporate knowledge, or institutional records. Unlike digital libraries, which focus on access, repositories focus on long-term storage and preservation. They often support controlled access and comply with metadata standards to ensure discoverability.
An Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) is a searchable interface that allows users to browse and locate items in a library’s collection. Users can search by title, author, keyword, or subject to check availability, reserve items, and view account activity. OPACs are typically part of a library’s LMS or ILS and may be integrated into a discovery layer for improved search functionality.
Libraries implement strong security practices to protect sensitive data, including encryption, secure logins, and role-based access controls. Many systems also comply with regional and industry-specific regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA. Softlink’s cloud-hosted solutions meet ISO 27001 for information security and ISO 27018 for cloud privacy. Our data centres are also IRAP-compliant, providing additional assurance for government and enterprise clients.
Artificial Intelligence is increasingly used in library software to enhance productivity and personalize user experiences.
Examples include:
For example, Softlink’s Liberty Link offers an AI-powered scan feature that extracts text from a photo-such as an abstract-and inserts it directly into a catalog record, saving staff time and reducing manual entry.
To determine if an LMS or Integrated Library System (ILS) fits your organization, start by listing your requirements.
Consider:
An LMS is the right fit if it supports both your current needs and future plans while improving efficiency and user satisfaction.
In short, a digital library is designed for discovery and use, while a repository is designed for preservation and management.
Cloud-based library systems offer:
They are particularly beneficial for organizations with distributed teams or hybrid work environments.
Yes. Modern ILS solutions integrate with:
Integration streamlines workflows and gives users seamless access to resources.
Support varies by vendor but typically includes:
Reliable support ensures your library system continues running smoothly and adapts to future needs.
Data migration usually involves these steps:
A good vendor provides expert guidance and tools to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
