The best library technology isn’t created in isolation.
Libraries have unique workflows, unique communities, and unique challenges. A feature that sounds great on paper may not work the way staff actually need it to. A workflow that makes sense to a software developer may create unnecessary work for the people using it every day.
That’s why we believe library technology should be built with libraries, not just for them.
Real-world feedback matters
When we’re developing a new feature or product, we don’t want to simply assume that we’ve solved the right problem.
Working directly with libraries gives us the opportunity to see how tools are actually used, where workflows break down, and which details make a meaningful difference to staff and patrons.
Sometimes that means discovering a bug.
Sometimes it means realizing that a feature needs to work differently.
And sometimes it means learning that something we thought was important simply isn’t.
All of that feedback makes the product better.
Partner & Preview Libraries
That’s the idea behind our Partner & Preview Library program.
We work with select libraries that are interested in getting early access to new tools and features and working directly with our team during development.
Partner libraries can help us:
- Test new features in real-world environments
- Identify bugs and unexpected problems
- Provide feedback on workflows and usability
- Suggest improvements and new ideas
- Help us understand what libraries actually need
In return, participating libraries may receive early access, special pricing, discounts, or other partnership benefits.
A better way to build library technology
We don’t expect every library to work the same way, and we don’t expect every product to be perfect on its first release.
Instead, we’re building an ongoing relationship between the people creating the technology and the people using it.
That means listening, testing, improving, and doing it again.
Because ultimately, the goal isn’t simply to build more software.
It’s to build better tools for libraries.
Interested in helping shape what we build? Learn more about becoming a Partner & Preview Library or get in touch with our team.