Cooperating Libraries Automated Network

The Cooperating Libraries Automated Network (CLAN) is Rhode Island's public library consortium. It is incorporated as a non-profit organization under the Internal Revenue Code (501c3). As of 2005, there were 49 member library systems operating from 73 locations. Nearly all RI residents have access to a CLAN library in their own communities. CLAN wa... s founded in 1982 for the purpose of sharing a single library automation system with a common patron database for circulation of library materials. In the ensuing twenty-one years, CLAN has grown dramatically. In addition to the circulation system, CLAN now offers a shared MARC bibliographic database, an on-line public access catalog, inter-library loan through system-wide holds (reserves), a consortium-wide telecommunications network with Internet access, and on-line access to periodical indexes and full-text databases. CLAN uses the RINET communications network to connect to the Internet. In the beginning, CLAN was managed almost entirely by the Providence Public Library. Since incorporating in 1993, the management and policy making functions of CLAN have passed from Providence to the general CLAN membership. Providence has remained responsible, under a contract with CLAN, for the technical operation of the circulation and bibliographic system. Funding for most CLAN computer and telecommunications equipment has been generously supplied by the Champlin Foundations. CLAN's operating budget comes entirely from fees paid by its members.Read More