Koha hits Apia, Samoa

UNESCO has formally announced the installation of the Koha open source library management system in the Nelson Memorial Library in Apia, Samoa. I was honoured to be involved in this project.

Dear Pacific Library colleagues,

The Communication & Information (CI) Sector of UNESCO, the University of the South Pacific (USP) Library, and the Samoa Nelson Memorial Library are very proud to announce the launch of the online Koha Library Management System (LMS) for the Samoa Nelson Memorial Library.

The Samoa Nelson Memorial Library is the first Pacific National Library to launch an online Library Management System allowing members and visitors to view their entire catalogue including their extensive Samoa and Pacific collection.

UNESCO is committed to developing dynamic, viable websites for Pacific National Libraries and National Archives to increase access to information. By publishing their catalogue, the Samoa Nelson Memorial Library promotes Samoa and Pacific literature and knowledge. It protects Samoa’s literary and intellectual heritage.

The Library now also provides a 24/7 service to Samoan members and visitors worldwide.

UNESCO promotes the use of open-source software and supports the Koha LMS. The Samoa project follows on from a successful 2006 deployment for the Cook Islands National Library. UNESCO fully funded the project including the supply of server hardware, bar-code readers, extensive training and documentation, internet connectivity, and linking Nelson staff to Koha technical support groups.

USP Library is the only recognised Koha implementation partner in the Pacific. We received excellent ICT support from CSL Ltd.

Please visit the Nelson site at: www.nelsonlibrary.ws

We look forward to comments on the Nelson site especially improvements. We would like to hear from Pacific National Libraries expressing interest in developing websites of their collections.

Regards,

Abel Caine

Adviser for Communication & Information

UNESCO Office for the Pacific States

Apia, SAMOA

Photo by: The Depratment

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