PALINET & SOLINET Merger Approved

I don’t think it was really surprising to anyone that PALINET & SOLINET merger has been approved (PDF). Maybe the initial announcement of the plan was, but at this point I think most of us following it were not surprised by the vote (95% in favor).

I don’t know any more about the merger than any other outsider, but I think the combined PALINET & SOLINET, which will be called Lyrasis, will be a force to be reckoned with. As Library Journal points out, their “combined resources, shared expertise, and improved operating efficiencies to achieve rapid implementation of new programs; greater consortia savings opportunities; extended networking and collaboration among members; innovative technology solutions; and an expanded education curriculum/”

What I wonder is how with this combined mega-organization effect other Regional Service Providers/Cooperatives such as NELINET, NYLINK and MLC? Lyrasis’ vision statement calls for a “regional base and national scope” and says that Lyrasis “will be an acknowledged leader – regionally and nationally – in innovation, collaboration, and effective support for libraries and cultural heritage organizations in helping them fulfill their education, information, and community-building missions.” (emphasis mine)

With online learning and new ICTs they will be able to offer training and other programs and services nationally. Will the smaller regions be able to compete in this environment? Long gone are the days of being the middle-man between OCLC and member libraries was sufficient for these service providers. While it may still be a significant function of regional providers, additional revenue streams and business models are necessary. Will the smaller regions be able to do this alone, or will they have to join with each other, or merger in with a larger group such as Lyrasis? Only time will tell, but there are many challenges (and opportunities) ahead for these organizations.