How can libraries share collections while keeping their existing systems and everyday workflows?
OpenRS brings together direct consortial borrowing (DCB) and interlibrary loan (ILL). These lab notes explore the practical work behind that approach: borrowing across library systems, connecting through standards, and enabling participation where direct integration is unavailable.
Start here
See resource sharing in action
Casey Henderson and Richard Mann’s interactive walkthroughs show an Alma patron borrowing from a FOLIO library, and a Koha library borrowing from an Alma library.
Explore the two OpenRS demonstrations.
Follow the Alma-to-FOLIO resource-sharing workflow for a written guide to requesting and dispatch.
Understand DCB, ILL and ISO 18626
DCB coordinates circulation between participating libraries. ILL accommodates more mediated borrowing and lending between organisations. ISO 18626—also written ISO18626—is a messaging standard for interlibrary loan; it serves a different role from the circulation integration required for DCB.
Read how ORS-Appliance connects these approaches.
Participate without a direct library-system integration
ORS-Appliance provides a route into DCB with staff-mediated steps where local automation is unavailable.
See the fallback participation workflow.
Find your library system
Start with the Alma, FOLIO and Koha demonstrations above. For current information about integrations, including Sierra and Polaris, consult the OpenRS integration FAQs.
These articles record dated experiments and demonstrations. For current project information or to discuss participation, contact OpenRS.