EBSCO Information Services, partnering with Ex Libris, now provides the invoice data and format specifications that allow libraries using the ALEPH500 system to load EDIFACT serials invoices from EBSCO. An interface between the two systems allows EDIFACT invoice files to be transmitted to the customer via Internet File Transfer Protocol (FTP).

"Manually managing the annual invoicing process for thousands of serial titles causes a major drain in productivity," said Michael Kaplan, director of product management for Ex Libris USA. "This interface is one of the most significant time-saving steps that can come from integrating vendor databases and products with a fully functional integrated library system. I am pleased we have been able to work cooperatively with EBSCO Information Services to implement this significant enhancement to library productivity."

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, was the first U.S. library to implement serial invoice processing in the ALEPH500 system. "The system itself is state-of-the-art," said Fariha Grieme, serials acquisitions coordinator at the University. "It is a major accomplishment that only seven months after we went live with the ALEPH500 system, we were able to load our invoices. It is easy to use and saves us time."

For more information on this service, please contact any EBSCO Regional Office. A list of regional offices and contacts is available on www.ebsco.com. Ex Libris users should contact their account manager or Michael Kaplan (michael@exlibris-usa.com).

Ex Libris is a leading worldwide developer of high-performance applications for libraries, information centers and researchers. A multinational company, Ex Libris has offices around the world. ALEPH, the Ex Libris integrated library solution, has been installed at more than 750 sites in 50 countries. For more information about Ex Libris and its products, see www.exlibrisgroup.com.

Release Date: March 18, 2003