PASCAL News

PASCAL Announces Second Contract for Shared Library Services Platform

On Wednesday, January 8, the Office of State Procurement finalized a new contract for a Shared Library Services Platform (SLSP). Ex Libris, the current provider, has been selected to continue delivering this critical statewide service. The Alma unified library services platform and Primo VE discovery solution will remain in use, providing both continuity and opportunities for enhanced collaboration among member libraries.

The initial shared system contract was signed in 2018 and, in 2020, fifty-five PASCAL libraries successfully migrated to the Alma/Primo VE platform, replacing various outdated systems. Today, the shared platform is the foundation of all library operations at participating institutions, streamlining library workflows and enabling informed decision-making while providing students and faculty with seamless access to resources via a common, user-friendly interface.

This collaborative initiative has transformed library systems and services across the state while delivering significant cost savings. PASCAL provides this mission-critical technology and specialized, central support to all participating libraries at a fraction of the cost of operating individual systems. In fiscal year 2023-2024 alone, this cooperative approach resulted in $5.4 million in cost avoidance for member libraries.

Re-enrollment for the Shared Library Services Platform is now open. Institutions wishing to continue their participation must re-enroll by March 21, 2025. Re-enrollment packets with key information have been sent to Library Deans and Directors to assist with the process.

For more details, view the solicitation here: https://apps.sceis.sc.gov/SCSolicitationWeb/solicitationAttachment.do?solicitnumber=5400026047.

Additional member information about re-enrollment is available on the Member website (password required).

For questions about the SLSP program or the re-enrollment process, please contact Rick Moul, or Dianne Schaefer.

Learn more about the Shared Library Services Platform: