e4libraries project launches

The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) and Book Industry Communication (BIC) recently announced that they are collaborating to launch a project promoting e-commerce and supply chain efficiencies in the library sector. The e4libraries project will form an important part of the MLA’s Better Stock, Better Libraries (BSBL) programme, and will increase value for money through applying technology to manual systems and inefficient working methods. Funded by MLA, the project will commence with immediate effect and continue to March 2008. 

The first task of the new project steering committee will be to appoint consultants to draw up a work plan. The project will work collaboratively with the National Acquisitions Group, CILIP and other library interests as well as MLA.

BSBL Programme Manager Andrew Stevens said: “We welcome the contribution BIC will make to the Better Stock Better Libraries programme. The e4libraries project is an important part of the programme and will focus on how technology and e-commerce can contribute to a more efficient model of purchasing stock. By 2008 we will have the foundations in place to support chief librarians to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their stock procurement.”

Martin Palmer from BIC added: “BIC is not sufficiently well-known in the library community, but its track record as an organisation which can deliver efficiency gains in the supply chain speaks for itself. We believe there is an important role for BIC to play in extending e-commerce, promoting standards and improving systems in the library sector.’