Best practices for library management
These best practices are based on our customers’ experience and the feedback our support team receives. They help you run your library professionally and efficiently.
Cataloguing and metadata
Grouping publications
Librario has three dedicated fields for grouping publications. The original title links different editions and translations of the same work. Parent publications structure multi-volume works. Series link separate publications that a publisher or institution issues under a shared series title.
Categorisation
Well-planned categories keep your library clear and easy to use. Concentrate on the core subject areas of your organisation and set consistent naming conventions. Following industry standards and maintaining the categories regularly keep them useful in the long run.
PDF quality
Full-text search is one of Librario’s most important features. Optimised PDF files with accurate text recognition are the basis for precise search results. Regular quality checks and fixing common problems such as missing text recognition or password protection keep your files fully usable.
Organisation and workflows
Review process
A structured review process keeps data quality high, so your colleagues quickly find the publications that matter to them.
Introducing new employees
A well-run digital library is an important tool for new employees. Building Librario into their onboarding starts with a user account from their first working day, created automatically through single sign-on (an option on our custom plans) or the API (Team and Business plans) if you wish. A mention in the onboarding materials and a training session on the corporate library introduce new employees to Librario from day one.
Rollout and migration
Migrating to Librario
Migrating your data to Librario is an important step and needs careful planning. Once you have analysed your starting point and exported the data from your legacy system, you can have Librario migrate the data or migrate it yourself through the API (Team and Business plans). Improving quality step by step, following the 80/20 rule, lets you make a pragmatic start.
Rolling out new library software successfully
Rolling out Librario is a significant change for your organisation. You can choose between a complete switchover (big bang) and a gradual rollout. Early communication, training tailored to each audience and enough support during the launch phase are key to success.
Encouraging library use
To get the most out of your digital library, it should be the first place people in your organisation turn to for research. Easy access through single sign-on (an option on our custom plans) and a place in existing workflows are the foundation. Preparing specialist literature for each audience and announcing new content regularly encourage active use.
Support and feedback
If you have questions about these best practices or how to apply them in your organisation, our support team is happy to help. We also welcome your feedback and your experience with our best practices.