What you'll learn:
- FOLIO libraries are streamlining course-resource workflows to reduce manual processes, eliminating duplication, and supporting more innovative, future-ready service models.
- Automation is transforming copyright and course material management, enabling libraries to achieve dramatic efficiency gains.
- Student access is improving across the board, with institutions reporting significant jumps in usage, class adoption, and engagement when readings become easier to find, navigate, and integrate into LMS environments.
Academic libraries using FOLIO are already embracing the flexibility and innovation of open-source infrastructure. But as demands for library services grow (especially around course resource delivery), many are reevaluating how they manage these workflows. Increasingly, libraries are turning towards tools like eReserve Plus to meet evolving needs in a scalable, student-centered way.
Here are five key factors driving this shift.
1. Integration That Supports Innovation
FOLIO’s modular architecture encourages libraries to build ecosystems that reflect their unique needs. For course resource management, this means choosing tools that integrate smoothly with existing systems, whether that’s the ILS, LMS, or authentication services.
Karey Patterson, CEO of eReserve Plus, notes that interoperability is essential: “Libraries shouldn’t have to choose between innovation and efficiency. We designed eReserve Plus to work within the systems libraries already use, so they can focus on service delivery rather than infrastructure.”
This kind of integration allows libraries to reduce duplication, streamline workflows, and better support faculty and students.
2. Simplifying Complex Workflows
Course resource management often involves navigating copyright, licensing, and faculty requests, which typically fall under tight timelines. eReserve Plus addresses these challenges with automation and self-service tools that reduce manual effort and improve turnaround times.
Libraries using the platform have seen tangible results. For example, automated Fast Track copyright checks have enabled over 74% of reading requests to be approved without manual review, freeing up staff time for higher-value work.
As Patterson explains, “Libraries are being asked to do more with less. By simplifying course resource workflows, we’re helping staff stay focused on what matters most: supporting teaching and learning.”
3. Prioritizing Student Experience
Students expect fast, intuitive access to course materials. With mobile-friendly design, LMS integration, and built-in accessibility features, eReserve Plus helps libraries meet those expectations. At Amherst College, implementation of the platform led to a 50% increase in items in use, a 60% increase in the number of classes using the system, and a 37% increase in scanned items over 3 years. These metrics reflect a broader trend: when access improves, engagement follows.
“Migrating from a homegrown system to eReserve Plus has streamlined processing, improved integration of readings into course content, and provided insight into student engagement.”
“Migrating from a homegrown system to eReserve Plus has streamlined processing, improved integration of readings into course content, and provided insight into student engagement.”
4. Navigating Copyright with Confidence
Copyright remains one of the most complex aspects of course resource delivery. eReserve Plus helps libraries stay compliant through automated checks, transparent workflows, and robust tracking.
The University of South Australia, for instance, more than doubled the number of readings in its repository (from 20,000 to 48,000), and processed over 223,000 requests in just four and a half years, nearly all automatically.
Don Brown, a product leader at EBSCO, emphasizes the importance of this capability: “Copyright is one of the biggest pain points for libraries. eReserve Plus added built-in automation and transparency so libraries can manage risk without slowing down service”.
5. A Partnership Approach to Technology
For FOLIO libraries, adopting new tools isn’t just about functionality; it’s about alignment with long-term strategy. eReserve Plus is supported by EBSCO, which offers dedicated training, responsive support, and a development roadmap that evolves alongside FOLIO.
Brown adds, “Our goal is to be more than just a technology provider. We’re committed to helping libraries deliver the best possible experience for their communities.”
A Strategic Choice for FOLIO Libraries
As academic environments continue to evolve, libraries need solutions that are flexible, efficient, and student-focused. eReserve Plus offers a practical way for FOLIO libraries to enhance course resource delivery while staying aligned with broader institutional goals.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all platform, it’s a tool that adapts to the needs of modern libraries—supporting innovation, compliance, and access in equal measure.
