[CALIBK12] Automated library software

[Susan Scott]

I am preparing to compose an RFP for a software purchase.  There are 18 
sites (12 elementary, 5 secondary, 1 Instructional materials center) and 
the centralized library services office in our district.  We already 
have a union catalog and our sites use  client software to login.  The 
site computers are pretty beefy PCs only.  The catalog is available via 
the web to PC or MAC platforms.  We will not be replacing the site 
computers, but we will be purchasing 2 new servers.

Our top priority is ease of use for circ, reports, and cataloging.  We 
would also like a variety of functions, like an Aquabrowser-type feature 
and federated searching.  While price is a consideration, it is not  yet 
an item that we are using to eliminate vendors.

What are t he top features that you would be looking for in a library 
software package?

Any concerns-nightmares-great results that you would like to share with me?

I am mostly interested in comments about the features of a software 
package, not the specific vendors.

Thanks so much, Susan Scott, Palo Alto Unified