At the end of November, the University of Warsaw will inaugurate a new system to support library processes. University of Warsaw Library is collaborating with the National Library in this area.

Alma and Primo are new functionalities that will facilitate and modernise the use of library services at the University of Warsaw. Due to the completion of the technological development of the existing Virtua/Chamo system, the University of Warsaw Library has started to look for new solutions for users of the UW’s Library and Information System. It entered into cooperation with the National Library and so began the process of implementing the modern Alma library collection management system and the implementation of the Primo search engine.

Alma

This is a next-generation cloud-based library system developed by Ex Libris in collaboration with Boston College, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Princeton University Library and Purdue University Library. In Poland, the National Library was the first to implement the Alma system, while also creating a common catalogue of Polish libraries.

 

Benefits of the new system:

  • improved collection, cataloguing and other library processes;
  • modern cloud-based solution used by university libraries in Poland and Europe;
  • the ability to generate detailed reports that help the library monitor the usability and use of its collections and make better decisions about resource management in Poland and Europe.
Primo

It offers a modern, intuitive interface to facilitate searching in the online catalogue, both in the library’s own holdings and in other libraries in Poland.

 

Benefits of the new search engine:

  • the ability to filter and narrow search results, making it easier to find specific items;
  • the possibility of accessing a much larger number of books, journals and other materials thanks to integration with the catalogues of other libraries;
  • a number of new features, including the creation of wish lists, saving search results, managing saved lists, setting up notifications of the availability of publications in areas of interest to the user;
  • the possibility for users to manage their loans and bookings online thanks to clear and easy-to-use accounts.
Enrolment at BUW

During the period of implementation of the Alma and Primo systems, BUW will be open at all times to users with a valid library account; the Free Access collections can be used on site, while access to BUW e-resources will be available with temporary restrictions.

 

There will be a suspension of BUW enrolments, loans and returns before the transition to the new system. Enrolment using the old system is possible until 8th November, 4pm.

 

Only until 8th November will it be possible to enrol at BUW using the old system. Return dates for books on loan that fall between 9th and 25th November will be postponed until 9th December.

 

The resumption of the regular operation of BUW, i.e. the opening of the Registration Point, Circulation Desk, Reading Room, 19th Century Publications Department Reading Room, Self-Check Stations and Pick up Locker, already serviced using the Alma system, is planned for 25th November.

 

BUW and the UW Libraries will keep you informed of any difficulties related to the implementation of the system in its final phase.

 

Detailed information is available on the University Library of Warsaw website >>