Extreme Makeover: MLNC Edition

1. Extreme Makeover: MLNC Edition The Transformative Journey of a Library Consortium

2. Sharon L. Bostick, PhD Dean of Libraries University of Missouri Kansas City President, MLNC Board of Directors Tracy RochowByerly, MLS ExecutiveDirector MLNC

3. Library Consortia in the USA • US libraries have a deep tradition of resource sharing • Consortia have been a common way to do this • The creation of consortia often but not always budget driven

4. Early American Library Consortia • American Library Association had a cooperation committee in the 1880’s • Library of Congress provided cataloging for participating libraries in the early 1900’s • Triangle Research Libraries Network formed in 1933

5. Evolution of American Library Consortia • Consortia continued to develop, most after 1960 and are include a variety of types. For example • Those that share technology, such as common library platforms • Those that focus on a variety of resource sharing initiatives • Limited purpose ones such as dealing with subject areas • OCLC Networks

6. OCLC Networks • Concept began in late 70s to provide a mechanism for purchasing, managing and training with OCLC products • Some existing consortia became OCLC networks; some were created for the purpose • Some single state, some regional • Consistent revenue stream from member libraries for providing the services

7. Changes in the Networks • Many networks focused almost exclusively on OCLC products • In 2008 OCLC changed their business model and gradually began withdrawing from the networks, providing the services themselves • Created a crisis for the networks

8. Result of changes • Many closed, such as BCR and NyLink • Some merged, such as Lyrasis, formed from three other large networks • The others, like many American consortia, are rethinking their purpose • All are continuing to change

9. MLNC • Began as an OCLC network in 1981 • Withdrew from an existing regional network to have a stronger voice for the state of Missouri • Official name Missouri Library Network Corporation • Currently celebrating 30 years of service to member libraries

12. MLNC Board • Bylaws do not dictate Board make-up by geography or type of library • Thus the Board is composed of key leaders in the state deeply invested in moving libraries forward • Willing to ask—and answer—the hard questions • Strong, creative Executive Director

13. The Dilemma • In 2008 knew that the OCLC model would change, not sure how • Held a Board strategic planning retreat with if/then scenarios • Formed a Strategic Options Committee which • Developed a Request for Proposals for merger partners

14. Merger responses • Strategic Options Committee reviewed responses. The key assessment points: • Is there trust with potential partners • Is there a successful history with them • What is the other organizations potential contribution? • Do they bring the skills, strengths contacts and other resources needed to achieve our goals?

15. Merger partner • Narrowed to one potential partner • Began Due Diligence • Extensive correspondence • Board voted to cease conversations; felt Missouri libraries would not be any better off merging with this organization • Voted to continue with the current structure but in a leaner form while continuing to pursue options • Developed a closure plan—just in case

16. Transforming MLNC • Possibly more internal than external • Reduced office space – but kept space for members! • Increased internal efficiencies • Hired part-time telecommuting staff • Moving into providing management services to other organizations • Expanded membership to neighboring states

18. What is next? • Vote to change By-Laws to broaden our options and allow for electronic participation • Another Board Retreat is scheduled to develop a new strategic plan

19. Thank you! • Sharon Bostick • bosticks@umkc.edu • Tracy RochowByerly • Tracy@mlnc.org