Law in the Internet Society

View   r3  >  r2  >  r1
MadihaZahrahChoksiFirstEssay 3 - 07 Apr 2018 - Main.MadihaZahrahChoksi
Line: 1 to 1
 
META TOPICPARENT name="FirstEssay"

Open Source ILS Software for Public Libraries

Changed:
<
<
-- By MadihaZahrahChoksi - 10 Nov 2017
>
>
-- By MadihaZahrahChoksi - 6 April 2018
 

A Conundrum Facing Libraries

Changed:
<
<
The 21st century library is under siege, at least that’s what current discourse among library professionals and library critics centers around. The internet of things has changed some of the fundamental attributes of the library space - from a place to acquire books and research services, to one that’s more interested in service delivery, workshops and trainings in an effort to maintain relevance. The modern library is a complex institution attempting to keep up with the times while staying true to two of its core values: the dissemination of free, open, and accessible information for the public and maintaining patron privacy.
>
>
The 21st century library is under siege, at least that’s what current discourse among library professionals and library critics centers around. The internet of things has changed some of the fundamental attributes of the library space - from a place to acquire books and research services, to one that’s more interested in service delivery, workshops and trainings in an effort to maintain relevance. The modern library is a complex institution attempting to keep up with the times while staying true to two of its core values: the dissemination of free, open, and accessible information for the public, and maintaining patron privacy. While funding remains one of the major challenges faced by library systems across North America as governments shrink library budgets, the preservation of cash flow is eminent.
 
Changed:
<
<

Modern Challenges

>
>

Open Source Alternatives

 
Changed:
<
<
Funding is one of the major challenges faced by library systems across North America as all levels of government continue to shrink library budgets. In my experience in and around libraries, lack of funding has made necessary creative opportunities to use resources such as area specific librarians to design and implement their own workshops and services - an attempt to work from the bottom (or branch) up.
>
>
Koha was released under the GNU GPL license - a first in the library world, and has since become the most widely used open source ILS programme within the USA. Of the over 17,000 public library branches across the United States, approximately 800 have open source ILS (ala.org). To many libraries, the shift/switch/transition/awakening/enlightenment (call it what you may) to open source ILSs is an ideal far out of their reach. The major misunderstanding is that the library system must invest in in-library technical expertise to implement the ILS, run trainings and troubleshoot. In fact, any library with technical expertise can navigate trainings and implementation by coordinating with their local Koha service provider. The very idea of open source software is foreign because it contrasts so sharply with the status quo - complacent implementation of proprietary software. While open source software seems “distinct” and “unfamiliar” to users who are uninitiated to its open-ness, in reality, it aligns more closely with the goals of the library than conventional software.
 
Changed:
<
<

A New Hope?

>
>

Time vs. $

 
Changed:
<
<
But what would happen if a library system such as the New York Public Library were to abandon its proprietary integrated library software (ILS) and switch to an open source programme to solve funding gaps and privacy concerns? ILSs were historically developed as proprietary products to be controlled by distant vendors in glass towers charging unaffordably high costs. Not only are libraries dependent on these programmes to meet branch specific needs (which do vary between library systems and branches), they must also wait for software updates, reach out to vendors for troubleshooting, and be wholly dysfunctional any time the ILS malfunctions - which happens more often then one would think. Essentially, libraries are beholden to the software and the company that controls it at an exorbitant cost that constrains other programs.
>
>
What would happen if library systems, both public and academic were to abandon proprietary integrated library systems (ILSs), and switch to an open source program to solve funding gaps and privacy concerns? While ALA standards strive to ensure that library spaces protect the privacy of their patrons, proprietary ILSs store personally identifiable information of patron records (i.e. library cards and loan history), search patterns, as well as web history within their databases. The information does not technically belong to the library, nor can the information be controlled by librarians. While proprietary ILSs are legally obliged to protect user privacy, the switch to open source ILSs would shift the power of protecting patron privacy to librarians.
 
Changed:
<
<
A best practice of librarians according to American Library Association standards is to ensure that the patron is in control of as many choices as possible within the library. As outlined in the Library Bill of Rights, library spaces strive to ensure the privacy of their patrons, however, proprietary ILSs store personally identifiable information of patron records (i.e. library cards and loan history), search patterns, as well as web history within their databases. The information does not technically belong to the library, nor can the information be controlled by librarians. While proprietary ILSs are legally obliged to protect user privacy, the switch to open source ILSs would shift the power of protecting patron privacy to librarians.
>
>
But are users really in control of their privacy within a library that utilizes proprietary ILSs? In my (short) opinion, no. In 2005, when the NSA issued a letter to obtain patron data from a Connecticut library under the Patriot Act, librarians across the nation united to support the ACLU in a Supreme Court brief. Since then, librarians have prioritized informing their patrons of their fundamental Freedom of Expression in the library, and the ways in which the Patriot Act and other surveillance mechanisms strive to impede that right. In the spirit of maintaining patron privacy, software that promote similar ideals have emerged, presenting a viable option for progressive library systems.
 
Deleted:
<
<
But are users really in control of their privacy within a library that utilizes proprietary ILSs? In my (short) opinion, no.
 
Changed:
<
<
In 2005, when the NSA issued a letter to obtain patron data from a Connecticut library under the Patriot Act, librarians across the nation united to support the ACLU in a Supreme Court brief. Since then, librarians have prioritized informing their patrons of their fundamental Freedom of Expression in the library, and the ways in which the Patriot Act and other surveillance mechanisms strive to impede that right. In the spirit of maintaining patron privacy, softwares that promote similar ideals have emerged, presenting a viable option for progressive library systems.
>
>

The Problem of Expediency

 
Changed:
<
<

Open Source Alternatives: Koha

>
>
In an effort to make this discussion more operationally relevant, my research sought to understand current impressions of open sourced ILSs. Their response revealed the incongruity of the individuals’ deeply-held beliefs about user data and the institutional challenges of implementing real change they have internalized through their professional roles. Over the last few years, the Arthur W. Diamond Library has considered a shift to open sourced ILSs, even hired new staff to aid in research and migration. The information presented to library bureaucrats highlighted the pros and cons of open sourced ILSs, of which the pros centered around the affordability and “next-gen” features such as RSS feeds, search facets, end-user tagging, text-messaging service support, even the ability to integrate a Meebo chatbox. Moreover, the pros emphasized the growing community of users and the list of established companies and experts in the field. The cons, of which there were not many, included the time-consuming migration process, the loss of standard features (whatever that even means), and the necessity to develop new workflows, potentially deal with new bugs, and the dependency on developers belonging to another institution.
 
Changed:
<
<
Koha was released under the GNU GPL license - a first in the library world, and has since become the most widely used open source ILS programme within the USA. Of the over 17,000 public library branches across the United States, approximately 800 have open source ILS (ala.org). To many libraries, the shift/switch/transition/awakening/enlightenment (call it what you may) to open source ILSs is an ideal far out of their reach. The major misunderstanding is that the library system must invest in in-library technical expertise to implement the ILS, run trainings and troubleshoot. In fact, any library with technical expertise can navigate trainings and implementation by coordinating with their local Koha service provider. The very idea of open source software is foreign because it contrasts so sharply with the status quo - complacent implementation of proprietary software. While open source software seems “distinct” and “unfamiliar” to users who are uninitiated to its open-ness, in reality, it aligns more closely with the goals of the library than conventional software.
>
>
The information gathered from librarians at the New York Public Library and NYU Law Library demonstrate the same conclusions. The problem is not so much surrounding the efficacy of the platform or the cost, it’s merely the convenience of not having to transition to a system that is distinct from the one currently in use.
 
Deleted:
<
<
I believe the privacy features of the Koha ILS are the strongest argument for its implementation. The platform allows librarians to control patron data at every point of contact. For example, if a book is checked out and returned by a patron, the librarian has the ability to control information and records management of the transaction. Options include anonymization of patron and/or material data, erasure of all identifiable data captured at the initial checkout, or assigning an automated retention period for user or material data captured. This ability to protect user data stands in stark contrast to the present reality, in which private companies hold vast amount of user data through their software products that libraries rely on in order to function.
 

The Open Road

Changed:
<
<
Currently, ILS platforms used by libraries impose a subservient relationship upon users. Vendors issue licenses for a fee, and any error on their part results in a gridlocked library. Additionally, the cost of software licenses reduces funds available for programs that have a greater impact on the patron experience. An open source ILS programme such as Koha presents an opportunity for libraries to create a digital ecosystem outside of the monetization of browsing habits, one in which user information is secure and anonymous. Librarians have long been concerned with user privacy and in my opinion, they are Snowden-esque in their efforts. While I do know that open source software for libraries is on a slow-but-certain upwards trajectory, I wonder what excuse trendsetting and model library systems such as the NYPL, the Chicago Public Library, or the Boston Public Library have for their complacency?

>
>
Librarians have long been concerned with user privacy – I wonder what excuse trendsetting and model library systems such as the NYPL or the Chicago Public Library have for their complacency?
 
Changed:
<
<
This is a very good introduction to the subject for non-specialists. It explains the situation clearly, and poses at least the basic questions so that taxpayers could at a minimum understand what they might stand to gain.

But for specialists (which we both are, in different aspects of the situation), the issue is not so much explaining the situation as deciding what can be done about it. The best way to improve the draft, in my opinion, if this is the relevant direction, is to ask people who work for major public library systems to discuss the issue with you, not for attribution as necessary, to see where the missing links are in the chain. Does Koho need a set of marketing, not just support, organizations to get it into the acquisition discussion? What is the business case for hiring away the marketing or strategy VP from one of the proprietary businesses to sell Koho? Where are the proprietary firms legally on risky ground with respect to anti-competitive activities in the acquisition process? With some questions like these answered, it might be possible to move from the de-energized state in which your current draft leaves us to something a little more operationally relevant.

>
>
The strategy for marketing Koha, as well as the cultural moment in which we live, can create pathways towards adoption. Firstly, Koha and other companies currently presents very little content regarding one of the main hurdles facing open LIS – credibility. For example, a quick scan of Koha’s website renders no information about adoption or current users, however, delving into the list of customers on the wiki site dedicated to Koha users highlights the global spread of users (sorted by continent, with every one represented), and shows hotspots of concentrated adoption such as India, Australia, and the Philippines. If Koha’s marketing focused more on the momentum already achieved, the resulting enhancement of its credibility would help increasingly influential library systems feel comfortable with making the switch. However, the impetus to consider open software remains the missing piece.
 
Changed:
<
<
>
>
There has never been a moment where discussion around data privacy has been more mainstream than April 2018, and people are searching for the action nearest at hand. While for most people this could entail something only as extreme as deleting their Facebook, for library and other information professionals, the current moment is one in which they can be the hero – taking actions that speak to relevant, contemporary concerns about open access. Koha and other companies could energize librarians to act by strategically centering their marketing on librarians as champions of data ethics, by creating a digital ecosystem outside of the monetization of browsing habits, one in which user information is secure and anonymous. Koha could capitalize on a moment in which the public is looking for leadership on personal data through emphasizing the role of the library in their marketing.
 

MadihaZahrahChoksiFirstEssay 2 - 04 Dec 2017 - Main.EbenMoglen
Line: 1 to 1
 
META TOPICPARENT name="FirstEssay"
Line: 37 to 37
 Currently, ILS platforms used by libraries impose a subservient relationship upon users. Vendors issue licenses for a fee, and any error on their part results in a gridlocked library. Additionally, the cost of software licenses reduces funds available for programs that have a greater impact on the patron experience. An open source ILS programme such as Koha presents an opportunity for libraries to create a digital ecosystem outside of the monetization of browsing habits, one in which user information is secure and anonymous. Librarians have long been concerned with user privacy and in my opinion, they are Snowden-esque in their efforts. While I do know that open source software for libraries is on a slow-but-certain upwards trajectory, I wonder what excuse trendsetting and model library systems such as the NYPL, the Chicago Public Library, or the Boston Public Library have for their complacency?
Added:
>
>

This is a very good introduction to the subject for non-specialists. It explains the situation clearly, and poses at least the basic questions so that taxpayers could at a minimum understand what they might stand to gain.

But for specialists (which we both are, in different aspects of the situation), the issue is not so much explaining the situation as deciding what can be done about it. The best way to improve the draft, in my opinion, if this is the relevant direction, is to ask people who work for major public library systems to discuss the issue with you, not for attribution as necessary, to see where the missing links are in the chain. Does Koho need a set of marketing, not just support, organizations to get it into the acquisition discussion? What is the business case for hiring away the marketing or strategy VP from one of the proprietary businesses to sell Koho? Where are the proprietary firms legally on risky ground with respect to anti-competitive activities in the acquisition process? With some questions like these answered, it might be possible to move from the de-energized state in which your current draft leaves us to something a little more operationally relevant.

 



MadihaZahrahChoksiFirstEssay 1 - 10 Nov 2017 - Main.MadihaZahrahChoksi
Line: 1 to 1
Added:
>
>
META TOPICPARENT name="FirstEssay"

Open Source ILS Software for Public Libraries

-- By MadihaZahrahChoksi - 10 Nov 2017

A Conundrum Facing Libraries

The 21st century library is under siege, at least that’s what current discourse among library professionals and library critics centers around. The internet of things has changed some of the fundamental attributes of the library space - from a place to acquire books and research services, to one that’s more interested in service delivery, workshops and trainings in an effort to maintain relevance. The modern library is a complex institution attempting to keep up with the times while staying true to two of its core values: the dissemination of free, open, and accessible information for the public and maintaining patron privacy.

Modern Challenges

Funding is one of the major challenges faced by library systems across North America as all levels of government continue to shrink library budgets. In my experience in and around libraries, lack of funding has made necessary creative opportunities to use resources such as area specific librarians to design and implement their own workshops and services - an attempt to work from the bottom (or branch) up.

A New Hope?

But what would happen if a library system such as the New York Public Library were to abandon its proprietary integrated library software (ILS) and switch to an open source programme to solve funding gaps and privacy concerns? ILSs were historically developed as proprietary products to be controlled by distant vendors in glass towers charging unaffordably high costs. Not only are libraries dependent on these programmes to meet branch specific needs (which do vary between library systems and branches), they must also wait for software updates, reach out to vendors for troubleshooting, and be wholly dysfunctional any time the ILS malfunctions - which happens more often then one would think. Essentially, libraries are beholden to the software and the company that controls it at an exorbitant cost that constrains other programs.

A best practice of librarians according to American Library Association standards is to ensure that the patron is in control of as many choices as possible within the library. As outlined in the Library Bill of Rights, library spaces strive to ensure the privacy of their patrons, however, proprietary ILSs store personally identifiable information of patron records (i.e. library cards and loan history), search patterns, as well as web history within their databases. The information does not technically belong to the library, nor can the information be controlled by librarians. While proprietary ILSs are legally obliged to protect user privacy, the switch to open source ILSs would shift the power of protecting patron privacy to librarians.

But are users really in control of their privacy within a library that utilizes proprietary ILSs? In my (short) opinion, no.

In 2005, when the NSA issued a letter to obtain patron data from a Connecticut library under the Patriot Act, librarians across the nation united to support the ACLU in a Supreme Court brief. Since then, librarians have prioritized informing their patrons of their fundamental Freedom of Expression in the library, and the ways in which the Patriot Act and other surveillance mechanisms strive to impede that right. In the spirit of maintaining patron privacy, softwares that promote similar ideals have emerged, presenting a viable option for progressive library systems.

Open Source Alternatives: Koha

Koha was released under the GNU GPL license - a first in the library world, and has since become the most widely used open source ILS programme within the USA. Of the over 17,000 public library branches across the United States, approximately 800 have open source ILS (ala.org). To many libraries, the shift/switch/transition/awakening/enlightenment (call it what you may) to open source ILSs is an ideal far out of their reach. The major misunderstanding is that the library system must invest in in-library technical expertise to implement the ILS, run trainings and troubleshoot. In fact, any library with technical expertise can navigate trainings and implementation by coordinating with their local Koha service provider. The very idea of open source software is foreign because it contrasts so sharply with the status quo - complacent implementation of proprietary software. While open source software seems “distinct” and “unfamiliar” to users who are uninitiated to its open-ness, in reality, it aligns more closely with the goals of the library than conventional software.

I believe the privacy features of the Koha ILS are the strongest argument for its implementation. The platform allows librarians to control patron data at every point of contact. For example, if a book is checked out and returned by a patron, the librarian has the ability to control information and records management of the transaction. Options include anonymization of patron and/or material data, erasure of all identifiable data captured at the initial checkout, or assigning an automated retention period for user or material data captured. This ability to protect user data stands in stark contrast to the present reality, in which private companies hold vast amount of user data through their software products that libraries rely on in order to function.

The Open Road

Currently, ILS platforms used by libraries impose a subservient relationship upon users. Vendors issue licenses for a fee, and any error on their part results in a gridlocked library. Additionally, the cost of software licenses reduces funds available for programs that have a greater impact on the patron experience. An open source ILS programme such as Koha presents an opportunity for libraries to create a digital ecosystem outside of the monetization of browsing habits, one in which user information is secure and anonymous. Librarians have long been concerned with user privacy and in my opinion, they are Snowden-esque in their efforts. While I do know that open source software for libraries is on a slow-but-certain upwards trajectory, I wonder what excuse trendsetting and model library systems such as the NYPL, the Chicago Public Library, or the Boston Public Library have for their complacency?


You are entitled to restrict access to your paper if you want to. But we all derive immense benefit from reading one another's work, and I hope you won't feel the need unless the subject matter is personal and its disclosure would be harmful or undesirable. To restrict access to your paper simply delete the "#" character on the next two lines:

Note: TWiki has strict formatting rules for preference declarations. Make sure you preserve the three spaces, asterisk, and extra space at the beginning of these lines. If you wish to give access to any other users simply add them to the comma separated ALLOWTOPICVIEW list.


Revision 3r3 - 07 Apr 2018 - 05:31:23 - MadihaZahrahChoksi
Revision 2r2 - 04 Dec 2017 - 16:25:06 - EbenMoglen
Revision 1r1 - 10 Nov 2017 - 05:02:12 - MadihaZahrahChoksi
This site is powered by the TWiki collaboration platform.
All material on this collaboration platform is the property of the contributing authors.
All material marked as authored by Eben Moglen is available under the license terms CC-BY-SA version 4.
Syndicate this site RSSATOM