Library diversifies vendors after national disruptions; CMS tests new tools and digital subscriptions

The board received a presentation from CMS staff about recent changes to vendor strategy and new collection-management tools. After the collapse of a major vendor, CMS placed its first order with Follett and expanded use of Ingram; staff also named a Spanish-language vendor in the packet and said they are arranging training for its ordering platform.

CMS staff described piloting software that identifies nonfiction more than five years old and tools that surface series gaps, circulation trends and author-level statistics to inform acquisitions. The presenter said multiple reviewers (between five and ten people) review selections before final decisions are made, ensuring checks and balances in collection development. Digital services such as Comics Plus were discussed as a possible addition for branch access at a fixed per-branch price.

The board asked about implementation timelines and agreed to revisit the digital-subscription proposal at a future meeting. No action was taken; staff said they will return as pilots mature and training completes.