Consolidation of the library technology industry global impact

Introduction Aggressive business consolidation through mergers and acquisitions in recent years has seen a dramatic reduction in the number of institutions providing library technology products and services to libraries. The workshop will examine the specific events as well as general trends that are impacting the key technology products available to libraries. How does industry consolidation benefit libraries? Or does it raise concerns? Overview The webinar examines the impact of industry consolidation on content and technology services for libraries. In particular, it addresses: • the retransformation of the library technology industry caused by unending cycles of business acquisitions • the impact on the number of products and services available • the impact on the capacity for development of increasingly sophisticated technology and content platforms • globalization and its impact on specific geographic regions • how libraries can create effective technology strategies in the context of industry consolidation. Objectives The objectives of the webinar are to: • increase awareness of global institutions that provide library technology products • discuss those institutions that serve the Gulf region • examine business trends • identify the main technology products used in academic, public, and cultural libraries • enable participants to create or revise their institutions’ technology strategies based on current product options and ongoing trends. Moderator Mr. Marshall Breeding • Creator and Editor of Library Technology Guides. • Independent consultant for library technology projects and initiatives. • Author of the annual Library Systems Report. • Editor of, and primary author for, Smart Libraries newsletter. • Author/editor of nine books and 1,000+ articles. Target Audience • Professionals and other individuals involved with technology in libraries, cultural centers or related organizations • Managers or administrators who may need to assess or purchase technology products • Vendors of technology or content products oriented to libraries The workshop will be non-technical. No prior knowledge will be expected.