Pica library systems: the third generation Available to Purchase

After a general introduction of Pica, with a short discussion of library co‐operation, organisation, Pica's history, and Pica systems, the Open Library Network (OLN) project is discussed. The Open Library Network will bring together a new network concept and a fully revised version of the Pica library systems. Three infrastructures are needed: technical, functional and organisational. This means networking, new functionality and organisation of the OLN implementation in the libraries. The network (VTP and SURFnet) is discussed, functional improvements (user interface, integration, intelligent bibliographic workstations, new OPAC, interlibrary lending' in relation to interconnected OPACs) are discussed and the decisions for implementation of OLN are presented (access authority, routing, costs). The article closes with a short presentation of related projects and future developments.