[OPLINTECH] Reservation systems

[Chad Neeper]

Steve, et al.,
We work mostly with smaller, usually single-branch libraries. While many of
them have many of the same needs as larger library systems, most of them
just simply don't have the same level of funding as larger libraries. So
for years, we've built out our solutions based on free and open source
software as much as possible, especially on the back-end where
staff/patrons don't necessarily even know they're using it. For the handful
of our libraries that want/use a pc reservation system, we leverage libki,
which is built by libraries for libraries. It's not necessarily as insanely
broad in scope as some of the products put out there by profit-driven
companies (sometimes just looking to justify subscribing to their
software by adding every feature imaginable), but the project has seen
steady development for years now. We find it to meet our needs for pc
reservation, integrating into the ILS for patron self-authentication. Might
be worth a peek for you or anyone else so inclined. (https://libki.org/)

For print, we've been suggesting/using Princh (https://princh.com/). I very
much like that the company initially built this software/solution
specifically for and around libraries (although I see from their website
that they're not limiting themselves to that vertical!) It's not as robust
as, say, PaperCut. But it's also still really tailored towards libraries
and doesn't have the overhead/complexity of trying to offer a solution to
meet every imaginable print scenario a customer may have. It has been
interesting watching the uptake over the last ~5 years in Ohio libraries
using Princh for their print solutions. We leverage it on the patron
computers as well as providing the instructions for patrons to use it on
their mobile wifi devices or from home. The company seems to be on the
smaller side and growing. We have found them to be great with tech support
(in our time zone and in English, even though they're on the opposite side
of the world), receptive to suggestions, feature requests, etc.

(In case anyone is wondering:  We have no financial relationship with
either of these organizations and no incentive to say boo about either. I
just like them and they meet our needs. YMMV!)

2 cents,
Chad
______________________________
*Chad Neeper*
Senior Systems Engineer

*Level 9 Networks*
740-548-8070 (voice)
866-214-6607 (fax)

*Full IT/Computer consulting services -- Specialized in public libraries*


On Mon, Oct 28, 2024 at 11:04 AM Stephen Hildreth via OPLINTECH <
oplintech at lists.oplin.org> wrote:

> Happy Monday -
>
> I've been asked to research alternatives to Envisionware's PC Reservation
> (and LPTOne/Princh for printing). We are interested in hearing what others
> may be using around the state plus pros and cons.
>
> Thank you!
>
> Steve Hildreth
>
> IT Project Specialist
>
> shildreth at lickingcountylibrary.org|740.349.5582
>
>
>
>
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