Alma to FOLIO Migration: Key Updates and Next Steps

The transition from Alma to FOLIO continues to move forward, with critical milestones approaching. The team is currently focused on data processing, verification and finalization of our 2nd bib/holdings/item loads, and preparing for indexing this data into Locate, EDS and Open RS environments. While this process has required a temporary freeze on FOLIO activity, future updates are expected to involve significantly less downtime.

Institutions are also being asked to review various data for cleanup purposes within Alma, including the areas of course reserves, patrons, and acquisitions.   Discussions are underway regarding when to suspend GIL Express requesting and how to communicate this information to stakeholders.

To support a smooth transition, User Acceptance Testing (UAT) remains a priority. Training materials and testing procedures have been shared for reference. UAT workflow meetings have been ongoing, and additional training sessions are being planned.

Meanwhile, integration efforts continue for e-resources, including custom catalog creation for Ebook Central titles and the incorporation of FOLIO license terms into discovery tools.

With a deadline of May 1 for GUGM registration, institutions are encouraged to sign up, as this year’s agenda will focus heavily on the FOLIO transition. Stay tuned for further updates as we move closer to the official go-live for FOLIO!

The FOLIO Implementation Project remains on track for a Summer 2025 launch

The FOLIO Implementation Project remains on track for a Summer 2025 launch, with significant milestones reached in October and November. Institutional libraries have completed key deliverables, including data cleanup, staff account creation, and configuration of circulation settings. November’s priorities focus on circulation rules, Z39.50 profiles, and item record examinations. Concurrently, libraries are updating electronic holdings in EBSCO’s Holdings and Link Management (HLM) system, essential for managing electronic resources post-FOLIO.  Stay tuned for future updates!

Full Steam ahead on FOLIO

The FOLIO Implementation Project is at full speed now that we are within a year of go-live. The Implementation Team has been focused on Circulation for the past month. The circulation staff at USG institution will be busy for the next few months crafting circ policies in FOLIO. As the institutions are completing these tasks, the Implementation Team will next focus on the cataloging portion of the project.

We are also underway with two pilots for the project. The first is Bibliograph (which is included with our EBSCO contract) and promises to enhance the portability, visibility, and value of our member libraries' catalogs. A plan will be developed shortly to outline rollout of Bibliograph to the remainder of our institutions. The second pilot is regarding EBSCO Holdings Management (HLM). HLM is the EBSCO product for managing and adding electronic resources. GIL is partnering with VSU to develop and document processes to share with the other institutions.

We also have a team working on an RFI for a Course Reserves/Course Management Integration solution. Requirements have been finalized by the committee, and the RFI will be posted soon.