You know the story. Ali Baba discovers a magical incantation that reveals treasure beyond imagination. His adventure is not unlike what’s happening right now in the library technology sphere. Historically, libraries haven’t had access to the source code, or ‘incantations’, that run mission-critical applications such as the Integrated Library System (ILS). But libraries are wising up. They’ve realized that even if source code seems like magic, having open access and freedom to innovate means they can choose their destiny like never before.

There will be a time when open source is de facto in libraries and when that time comes our dialogue about software will necessarily evolve. Distingushing between open source and proprietary development/business models won’t be revolutionary. But until that time, there’s a case to be made, issues to be raised, and arguments to be posited.

This blog is called Open Sesame. It offers a casual peek into the thoughts of our visionary staff as we pursue our mission of making open source accessible to libraries. Open Sesame is one arena where we stake out our claim. And yes, we’re a company, but we’re also people with a passion for libraries, freedom and software. In introducing ourselves, my hope is that you can get to know us personally, learn what drives and motivates us, and find a place for us in your community.

As far as the forty thieves, we won’t worry about them, they didn’t do so well in the story anyway :-).