Give staff more time and users more resources

A few years ago, the library staff at Huachiew Chalermprakiet University decided that it was time to reassess their library system needs. “With some challenges on how best to serve our patrons, we analyzed all our library needs. We realized that in order to meet any future requirements and deal with limitations facing the library by way of a lack of both staff and budget, we would need a new library management system,” said Supaporn Chaithammapakorn, Library Director at Huachiew Chalermprakiet University. “Compared to our previous library system, WorldShare^® Management Services (WMS) really helped to simplify our workflows and effectively relieve our routine work. There are so many amazing features.”

Although introducing a new system can be difficult, Supaporn worked with OCLC to make the transition as smooth as possible for her staff. “Initially, there were some language difficulties, as there were technical terms used in WMS that were different from what our staff were used to,” she explained. “But with support from the WMS Implementation Team, this was soon rectified.” The library also received post-implementation assistance from OCLC’s Thai partner, AMS. “After the onsite training and having gone live, our staff took part in a Library Knowledge Management program, which provided us with a good understanding of the system,” she said.

Both students and faculty have provided Supaporn with positive feedback, especially since they can now access resources not only from Huachiew Chalermprakiet University, but also from libraries around the world. Not only has WorldShare Interlibrary Loan allowed the library to provide more resources to users by borrowing from other institutions, but it also has saved the library money. Supaporn added, “Users are still getting accustomed to the single-search option. This is something we are trying to promote in our library by advertising through the website, social media, and face to face.”  

The biggest positive change for Supaporn and her library is the new connection to WMS libraries all over the world to share data, work, and resources. “Sharing is a big component of WMS. Sharing resources, data, and cataloging has helped substantially reduce both our budget and time spent,” she concluded.

Location

• Chang Wat Samut Prakan, Thailand

Library at a glance

• Founded by the largest charitable Chinese organization in Thai society, the Poh Tek Sieng Tung Overseas Chinese Foundation
• Supports one of Thailand’s leading health sciences and Chinese studies universities with the mission, “Studying, so as to be of Service to Society”
• Holds 320,000 volumes