Using Alma/Primo VE for digital collection discovery and access
Abstract
This paper examines how two Texas academic libraries leverage the Alma/ Primo VE library services platform to enhance digital collection discovery, access and user experience within evolving and often complex ecosystems of open source and locally developed repositories. Using case studies from both institutions, it illuminates the opportunities and practical challenges of leveraging Alma/Primo VE features for various aspects of digital collection management. One institution's approach centres on a modular, locally architected ecosystem, using Alma/Primo VE primarily as a discovery and integration layer, while maintaining core preservation and repository functions in other specialised, locally managed platforms. The other institution has adopted the Alma Digital add-on for centralised metadata management, streamlined publication and flexible access controls to address discoverability and accessibility priorities. The paper identifies trends such as the growing importance of metadata interoperability, agile development practices and cross-departmental collaboration. Key findings include the benefits of Alma/Primo VE’s flexible metadata management options, enhanced user experience through unified discovery, granular access controls to support both licensed and open access resources, and convenient accessibility options. However, Alma/Primo VE is not a comprehensive digital collection management solution, lacking robust digital preservation features. There are also necessary compromises for metadata interoperability/reuse, costs associated with developing staff expertise, and limitations in accessibility support. The paper concludes that while Alma/Primo VE offers valuable tools to support discovery and access for digital collections, institutions must weigh trade-offs, make compromises and adopt other solutions to fully address preservation, metadata reuse, accessibility needs and licensing determinations. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at http:// hstalks.com/business.
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Author's Biography
J.J. Bennett is a software engineer at UT Libraries, where he works with a team of developers building and operating large-scale digital asset management and access systems for preservation and discovery. His work includes the architecture and implementation of software solutions using modern technology stacks and development processes with a focus on scalability, performance, security and interoperability. Partnering closely with librarians and campus stakeholders, he works to advance UT Libraries’ infrastructure and practices to support reliable, high-quality access to digital and physical collections.
Melanie Cofield is the former Head of Access Systems at UT Libraries, where she oversaw the team providing management of the library services platform, including various local and third-party integrations for data management and discovery. She contributed to the continuous development, improvement and integration of UT Libraries’ various access systems, focusing on ethical description and metadata interoperability to support discoverability and access to physical and digital library resources. Melanie served on UT Libraries’ Metadata Steering Committee and liaised with campus partners on collaborative projects involving descriptive best practices, metadata aggregation and linked data. She holds an MSIS degree from the University of Texas at Austin.
Misu Kim is the Assistant Director for Technical Services at the University of Texas at Dallas Libraries (UTDL), where she oversees acquisitions, electronic resources and metadata services. Since joining UTDL, she has served in multiple capacities and presented on topics including metadata workflow optimisation, linked data and digital project development. She works closely with the Digital Archivist and the University Archivist to implement best practices for the description and management of digital and archival assets. Misu is a member of the 2020 cohort of the Texas Accelerated Library Leaders, the Texas Library Association’s leadership development institute. She holds an MIS from the University of North Texas and a PhD in English from Texas A&M University.
