Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped Selects Progress OpenEdge-based SaaS System
KLAS Library Application from Partner Keystone Systems Allows Libraries to Provide State-of-the-Art Self-Services and Offer 24 Hour Turn Around with Less Resources
BEDFORD, Mass., (BUSINESS WIRE)
13-Mar-2007
Progress Software Corporation (NASDAQ: PRGS), a provider of leading application infrastructure software to develop, deploy, integrate and manage business applications, today announced that the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (MDLBPH) has fully implemented the Keystone Library Automation System (KLAS(R)) from Progress Application Partner (AP) Keystone Systems. The system helps libraries like MDLBPH fulfill thousands of requests for materials within a 24-hour period. By providing their innovative library technology in a Software-as-a-Service model (SaaS), Keystone Systems, a leading provider of automated library systems, can offer libraries with budgetary constraints, access to much needed online services.
Because libraries like MDLBPH are centralized and serve the entire state/region in which they are located, they must act more like a central warehouse than a traditional library. Instead of patrons browsing stacks looking for materials, books are stored in special re-usable packaging that is sent directly to the patron's home, and can be used to return the book to the library. In order to efficiently manage the fulfillment process and offer self-service online access that can integrate with assistive technologies such as screen readers and type enlargement, MDLBPH decided to adopt KLAS.
"We strive to be like public libraries in the state of Maryland - our only difference is that we lend books, on a wide range of subject interests, in Braille, recorded on discs and cassettes, and in large type," said Jill Lewis, Library Director, MDLBPH. "Software such as KLAS helps us achieve that goal while encouraging our patrons to become more self-sufficient and in charge of their library service needs."
Based on the award-winning Progress OpenEdge business application platform, KLAS offers a flexible and reliable automation solution to libraries, businesses, and institutions- including a self-service, on-line catalogue. The online public access catalogue (WebOPAC) allows patrons to place requests or reservations for books, something that was unavailable with the previous system. The information is automatically updated in real time to the patron's request and/or reserve list in the KLAS database, much like how Netflix works for movies. The system even allows users to highlight genres they like and don't like, allowing MDLBPH staff to proactively send books as new titles come in.
"KLAS combines over twenty years of experience in library services with Progress' innovative technologies to offer libraries access to much needed systems in a revolutionary new way," said Kay Holloman, CEO of Keystone Systems. "By adopting KLAS in a SaaS model, libraries are able to find software that meets their workflow needs and complies with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, while eliminating many of their budgetary and IT barriers. This allows them to better utilize existing staffing and most importantly, offer those with special needs a great self-service option."
Not only does KLAS provide improved staff work flow and reporting, it also provides more effective and accurate book selection services Because it is delivered in a SaaS model, Keystone provides support for the KLAS software with daily technical operations, housing, and maintenance of server and network hardware, allowing MDLBPH to use funds previously allocated for technology staff and maintenance to other critical areas of the library.
"The SaaS model will free up one of our librarians to travel the state to educate other libraries on adaptive technologies," said Lewis.
About Keystone Systems:
Keystone Systems, Inc, a leading provider of accessible library software since 1983, provides software and service solutions to libraries with complex demands. Keystone developers have created a powerful, yet elegant library automation system, which has the flexibility to meet specific needs of special, academic, and public libraries. For more information about Keystone Systems or our KLAS, visit www.klas.com.
About Progress Software Corporation
Progress Software Corporation (Nasdaq: PRGS) provides application infrastructure software for the development, deployment, integration and management of business applications. Our goal is to maximize the benefits of information technology while minimizing its complexity and total cost of ownership. Progress can be reached at www.progress.com or +1-781-280-4000.
CONTACT: Progress Software Silvie Casanova, 781-999-7235 scasanov@progress.com or LEWIS PR Ian Lipner, 202-349- 3866 progress@lewispr.com SOURCE: Progress Software
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