TLC Library Management System, Library App and Library Services Platform

Descriptions

The procurement is being carried by the London Borough of Sutton on behalf of The Library Consortium (TLC).

TLC, was originally formed of three authorities in 2004 who came together to share resources and contracts to get the best value for money for customers and their authorities.

TLC is a consortium of member authorities. It is not a legal entity. Each member authority takes responsibility for contractual arrangements with Suppliers and providers. TLC members become party to the Consortium's Framework(s) and can order (or 'call-off') the goods, works or services covered by the relevant Framework(s). Framework agreements are set up by public sector bodies with Suppliers to provide goods, works or services according to certain requirements - e.g. price, quality and quantity. For TLC, the Framework is arranged centrally by the London Borough of Sutton for use across the Consortium. At the core of the Consortium is the Library Management System, but the Consortium also procures contracts jointly for stock, transport and digital resources, including eBooks.

With 23 local authority members, TLC is one of the largest public library consortia in England, consisting of:

> 8.2 million residents

> 7.3 million items

> 318 libraries

The Authority is looking to put in place a framework with a single supplier for a period of 6 years.

The requirements include:

> Library Management System (LMS) staff functionality - Ease of use, logical

LMS system functionality:

(1) Allows full functionality/interoperability of systems and stock sharing throughout TLC but enables local autonomy (for example: local fees/charges setting) and local authority branding.

(2) A dynamic set of processes that allow full stock sharing and reserving of physical items giving customers an efficient and seamless journey regardless of their main library service provider.

System integrations:

to work seamlessly with any third party provision required by TLC members (e.g. eStock. Self Access)

Library App

fully functional and innovative Library app which can be customised and branded at a local level

Library Service Platform (Discovery);

(1) Innovative "one-stop" digital platform for customers

(2) Customisable for each TLC member

(3) Satisfies the needs of customers with streamlined access to all library functions and services (events, payments, catalogue searching, account management, etc.)

Analytics:

A completely flexible analytics interface enabling authorities to create and interrogate any facet(s) of library data they choose

Vision:

TLC has a constant desire to innovate and push the boundaries of public library provision. All products will need to be continually developed in order to remain relevant and innovative to provide the best outcomes for customers and local authorities

Value for money:

Value for money and income generation opportunities remain essential.