The Best of Times? The Worst of Times? Implementing Blacklight at Indiana University Libraries

Abstract

Recently, the Indiana University Libraries plunged boldly into discovery with the implementation of an open source discovery layer as the new public interface for IUCAT, the statewide shared online catalog. Blacklight was chosen as the solution to improve the usability and accessibility of the catalog in response to user and staff dissatisfaction with the traditional ILS OPAC interface and in preparation for IU’s upcoming move to the Kuali Open Library Environment (OLE). A successful discovery implementation requires buy-in from library staff as well as the approval and acceptance of users; this presentation will highlight the numerous challenges in achieving success in a complex environment of diverse stakeholders with divergent needs and goals. Two members of the system-wide Blacklight Task Force will discuss the ups and downs experienced throughout the development process, from vanquishing ugly data to negotiating with developers to coordinating staff training to going public. The presenters will also share hopes for further enhancements and plans for the transition to Kuali OLE.