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FOLIO

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Note: FOLIO is an emerging platform with active development. Libraries considering FOLIO should plan for longer implementation timelines and work with experienced implementation partners. The platform is production-ready but represents a different architectural approach than traditional ILS systems.

At a Glance

Replaces Polaris
Setup Time 10-14 weeks
Skill Level Advanced
Cost Free
Maturity Emerging
Community Growing

Key Features

Microservices Architecture

Modular, service-based design allows independent scaling, updating, and maintenance of system components.

Cloud-Native Design

Built for containerized deployment. Works with Kubernetes and modern cloud infrastructure platforms.

Inventory & Acquisitions

Complete inventory management, purchase orders, receiving, and invoicing workflows for modern procurement.

Circulation & Patrons

Flexible circulation policies, patron management, fees/fines, and request management modules.

API-First Approach

RESTful APIs enable integration with external systems and development of custom applications on top of FOLIO.

Scalable Infrastructure

Designed to scale horizontally. Handle growth without complete system overhaul or vendor lock-in.

Setup Guide

  1. Strategic Planning: Assess organizational readiness for modern cloud-native architecture. Evaluate IT infrastructure, staff technical capabilities, and organizational change management. Define long-term technology strategy and FOLIO's role in library evolution.
  2. Infrastructure Design: Plan cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, on-premises Kubernetes). Design database architecture and backup strategy. Plan for high availability, disaster recovery, and performance monitoring. Document infrastructure requirements and compliance needs.
  3. System Configuration: Deploy FOLIO platform and configure modules. Set up tenant management, authentication integration (LDAP/Active Directory). Configure acquisitions, inventory, and circulation workflows to match library processes.
  4. Data Migration & Integration: Migrate inventory, patron, and transaction data from legacy system. Map legacy data to FOLIO data models. Integrate with existing systems (email, SMS, payment processing). Validate data integrity and reconcile differences.
  5. Comprehensive Training: Train IT staff on FOLIO architecture and operations. Provide departmental training for acquisitions, circulation, cataloging, and management roles. Develop documentation and standard operating procedures.
  6. Extended Testing: Conduct thorough testing of all modules and integrations. Test performance under peak loads. Conduct user acceptance testing with staff and pilot patrons. Document and resolve issues.
  7. Phased Launch & Support: Deploy to production environment. Begin with limited patron access, expanding gradually. Monitor system performance, logs, and user feedback. Establish ongoing support and continuous improvement process.

Resources & Links

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