Open Source Software Provides a Low-cost Alternative
January 31, 2007

Open source software is hot right now! More and more libraries are looking to these applications as a low-cost way to get things done.

Three examples of large-scale open source library projects:

• Evergreen is an open source ILS developed by the Georgia Public Library Service. Read more in this recent LJ article.
• Howard County Library created a customized version of Linux for library use on staff and public computers.
• Info Island on Second Life (which is all open source) is a virtual library providing services to Second Life residents.

Or, maybe you’re just looking for an alternative to a single application. Here are a few resources for free software (open source or freeware) that will work well, without the risk of crashing your system:

• Do you know what you need to do, but don’t know whether there’s open source/freeware available? Check out the lists at eConsultant.
• These sites offer a variety of commonly useful applications: Starving students and TTCS.

Want to learn even more? Check out the open source pathfinder on WebJunction

Drawing Winner

Congratulations to Doreen Hannon of the Salem-South Lyon District Library. She won the drawing associated with our recent survey and is now the proud owner of a stainless steel WebJunction mug!

Past Tips:

• Be prepared to talk about your library (or yourself)
• Tough Questions
• View all the past tips here.