The most-modern librarian system: The Main Library of the Warsaw University of Technology

The Main Library of the Warsaw University of Technology, Biblioteka Główna Politechniki Warszawskiej (BG PW) has implemented the most-modern Alma system and has started co-cataloguing with the National Library. A broad-scale co-operation within the nationwide librarian network, possible thanks to the implementation of uniform cataloguing rules benefits both the libraries’ staff, able to manage collections more effectively, and readers – who have gained a broader, quicker and more transparent access to information.
BG PW, one of the largest academic libraries in Poland, boasts a collection of 1,5M volumes related to basic, engineering, natural sciences and socio-economic sciences. When ot comes to collections, BG PW concentrates increasingly on electronic assets which now constitute 90% of its resources. The Library offers access to 210 data bases, over 530K e-books and almost 8400 e-magazines. It stores almost 7K photographs, over 2K slides and ca. 1,3K typescripts of archive value.
The library collections reflect the course of development stressing in particular specialised character and availability of materials. Thanks to such approach, BG PW serves not only the academic society, but also supports the development of a society of knowledge, providing access to scientific, historical and cultural assets to a broader range of readers.
The National Library covers the costs of the system’s maintenance.