Bridging Systems, Strengthening Collaboration: Lessons from BLC’s Opt-In Cohort Model for Network Zone Implementation

The Boston Library Consortium (BLC) recently completed a distinctive Network Zone implementation in which five of its 26 members migrated together as an initial opt-in cohort. This group included both institutions already using Alma/Primo and those entirely new to the platform, creating a mix of systems and prior experiences that introduced unique challenges, complexities, and opportunities. Throughout the process, both the participating libraries and Ex Libris staff collaborated closely to navigate these dynamics and bring the project to fruition. This presentation will provide valuable insights for other consortia considering Network Zone implementations, particularly those involving members with diverse expertise, technical backgrounds, and library systems. We will discuss effective strategies for communication among libraries and with Ex Libris, approaches to ensuring a smooth and successful implementation, and our plans for ongoing support and the phased expansion of the Network Zone to future cohorts of BLC members.