Collaborative repository transformation and the work of building a sustainable Islandora for All

Many institutions rely on proprietary repository systems to steward their content. Proprietary systems offer convenient set-up and maintenance, and have long been considered the most efficient option for institutions that lack in-house resources for system development and administration. However, consolidation in the commercial repository sector has increasingly prompted institutions to consider alternatives that give them greater ownership over their content, their data, and their infrastructure. A panel representing a group of colleges and vendor partners will discuss their work in building sustainable collaborations to support open source repository infrastructure, maintenance, and development, making open source software adoption attainable for a broader community. The session will cover key projects including LASIR (building out features in Islandora to make it an affordable, viable IR solution), ISLE (creating an easier way to install and maintain Islandora), and the Islandora for All Mellon Foundation grant. Panelists will discuss the affordances of open source repository software for institutions of all sizes and will also share their perspectives on the experience of working collaboratively with various colleges, vendors, and consortia, and share their thoughts on the biggest challenges facing this type of collaborative work.