Axiell launches Spark to access and perform key library services anytime, anywhere

Cloud-based solution extends library management system for UK customers to improve efficiency and maximise productivity

Nottingham, UK, 3 November, 2015 – Axiell UK, the leading supplier of IT systems and services to public libraries, has today launched Spark, a flexible and highly secure cloud solution for UK customers, enabling library team members or volunteers to easily access the Axiell Library Management System from internet connected PCs, tablets or smartphone.

Spark is designed to make the running and managing of a library simpler and more efficient. Library and partner staff, and community volunteers can focus on delivering more value-added services for patrons in the library and also in the community.

Deployed in Axiell’s secure cloud servers, Spark delivers five modules: administration, circulations, acquisitions, catalogue, and cash management. It provides complete flexibility for all the team giving them the mobility and freedom to work where they are needed in the community, either online or in person. This could be behind a busy service desk, helping customers at the bookshelves, or taking the library service to the community through pop-up or mobile library events.

Tools that are simple to use and attractive get adopted more quickly by all members of the team. Spark’s simple and intuitive user experience makes this interface adaptable to the diverse needs of the modern library. Whether qualified librarian or volunteer, Spark can be picked up with minimal training, enabling everyone to work more efficiently and manage a library more effectively.

Spark also comes with a permission system where the team can be granted different levels of access depending on their role and authority, what they need access to, or perhaps on whether they are permanent staff or volunteer.

The key features of Spark include:

• Cloud based – access Spark from any device with an internet connection across PC, tablet, and smartphones
• Flexible, modular system – made up of five modules: admin, circulations, acquisitions, catalogue, and cash managemen
• Simple, intuitive user experience – drag and drop editing, and multi-language support are some of the key features
• Permissions-based accessibility – users (library staff or volunteers) can be granted different levels of access depending on their role, level of authority and what they need access to
• Single sign-on – added convenience and saved time from logging into one site, not many

Mark Allcock, Products and Services Portfolio Manager at Axiell UK, comments: “We see more and more alternative organisations and volunteers stepping up to help run and serve in the UK’s public libraries. We recognise that those who run and manage libraries need tools that are simple to use so they can concentrate on what they do best – that’s focusing on the customer’s experience and the needs of their community. Libraries rely on a workforce with an ever increasing mix of skills and experience - this is the modern library, and to cater for the modern library we created Spark.”

Spark is part of the Axiell Digital Library Family, a portfolio of solutions helping libraries transform to digital and embrace the future.

Axiell’s Spark is available now from www.axiell.co.uk/solutions/interface.