Solus

The quiet rustle of pages, the distant hum of whispers—libraries have long been treasured sanctuaries of learning. Today, they are evolving into dynamic hubs where technology meets tradition. The seamless integration of the digital and physical worlds reshapes how communities access knowledge and connect with resources.

Solus is at the forefront of this transformation, a company redefining what libraries can achieve in a digital-first world.

Solus has carved a niche as a global leader in library technology, offering innovative software solutions that elevate user and staff experiences. Initially focused on public libraries, the company has expanded to academic institutions, underscoring its versatility and broad impact.

With a global presence spanning over 8,000 libraries and supporting 50 languages—including left-to-right and right-to-left scripts—Solus helps libraries remain vibrant, accessible, and relevant.

“Our goal is to deliver exceptional user experiences across all digital library touchpoints,” says Neil Wishart, co-founder and CEO of Solus. “From Library Apps and Discovery platforms to e-Booking of Events, Rooms, Resources and PCs, we integrate diverse systems to create seamless interactions leaving libraries to focus on their communities.”

The Solus Ecosystem: A Unified Approach

A standout feature of Solus is its ecosystem—a suite of interconnected products powered by robust cloud-based middleware. This middleware is the foundation, enabling seamless integration of various library systems and ensuring a consistent experience across all user interactions. The key components of the ecosystem include:

• Solus Library App: The flagship product allows users to manage their library experience via mobile devices. From checking out books using NFC technology to booking study rooms and accessing e-content, the app is a one-stop solution for library members. Its unique features include self-checkout through RFID, personalized reading lists, push notifications for renuals and returning checkouts, and real-time alerts.
• Staff App: Streamlines daily operations for library teams, improving efficiency and enabling personalized visitor support.
• Kids App: A gamified platform for young readers featuring a reading tracker, augmented reality rewards, and an engaging interface tailored to children.
• LUCi Discovery Platform: A web-based tool that mirrors the mobile app’s capabilities in an engaging, commercial grade content discovery platform.
• Events, Rooms, and Resources Management: Tools for booking events, rooms, resources and PCs, fully integrated into the app and the LUCi discovery platform.

“The key to our ecosystem is interoperability,” adds Andrew Daye, CTO of Solus. “All our products leverage the same middleware, creating a unified user journey and empowering libraries to manage resources efficiently.

Transformational Success Stories

Sunderland Libraries provides a shining example of how the company’s innovative solutions can revitalize library services. Once hampered by outdated systems and increasing demand for mobile-friendly interactions, Sunderland embraced digital transformation by partnering with Solus. Implementing the Solus Library App was a key turning point, bringing their services into the digital age.

Our goal is to deliver exceptional user experiences across all digital library touchpoints. From Library Apps and Discovery platforms to e-Booking of Events, Rooms, Resources and PCs, we integrate diverse systems to create seamless interactions leaving libraries to focus on their communities

Ian Sherlock, digital library operations coordinator at Sunderland Libraries, reflected on the shift that the library service they inherited was in dire need of modernization. The Solus Library App has been instrumental in that transformation, providing 24/7 access and meeting the needs of a generation that prefers mobile interactions.

The Sunderland Library App offers instant access to the library’s catalog, renewals, and reservations. Features like reading trackers and self-renewals have significantly improved user satisfaction. The app’s availability outside regular hours has also increased engagement, especially with a noticeable rise in e-book signups, as users discover new content quickly.

Bayside Libraries offers another powerful example of the company’s impact. Serving a diverse community, Bayside recognized the need to modernize its services and adopted the Solus Library App to meet the growing demand for convenience and accessibility. Trevor MacKay, Library Resource & Program Coordinator, highlights the transformation.

This empowers users by integrating self-loan options, allowing them to check out books directly through their phones. This innovation has reduced the reliance on physical loan kiosks, simplifying the borrowing process and boosting satisfaction. The app’s integration with various library platforms has made it easier for members to navigate and access digital resources.

Integrating Disparate Systems

Many libraries, such as Sunderland and Bayside Libraries, have collaborated with Solus to ensure a seamless transition to the digital age.

Solus ensures that legacy systems don’t hinder libraries’ ability to adapt to modern demands. The company transforms many traditional catalogs and websites that are outdated, unresponsive, and ill-equipped for mobile use. It addresses these challenges by overlaying modern, intuitive interfaces on existing systems, making them accessible and user-friendly across devices.

“Many libraries face technical debt from outdated systems,” explains Wishart. “We modernize these platforms, integrating disparate systems to provide a cohesive user journey.

A Vision for the Future

Over the next 18-24 months, Solus plans to expand its reach in academic libraries and strengthen its presence in Europe through reseller partnerships. Upcoming innovations include releasing a staff-focused application to integrate with the broader Solus ecosystem and delivering a cutting edge search solution to help younger users access library content.

“We are committed to helping libraries thrive,” says Wishart. “By blending cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of library needs, we aim to help libraries reposition their offer for digital first users.”

Libraries are the heart of every community, and Solus is dedicated to ensuring they remain dynamic, accessible, and indispensable. With its innovative ecosystem, global reach, and unwavering focus on user experience, Solus is not just a technology provider but a trusted partner in transforming libraries for the digital era.