Klas.com Reviews

Based on checking the website, Klas.com Keystone Library Automation System is a robust and long-standing integrated library system ILS specifically designed to meet the unique needs of special libraries, including talking book libraries, instructional resource centers, and associations.

It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for managing library operations, enhancing accessibility for patrons, and fostering community engagement, standing out for its specialized functionalities beyond a typical ILS.

Klas.com, powered by Keystone Systems, isn’t just another software vendor.

It’s a veteran in the library automation space, boasting over 30 years of experience. This isn’t some fly-by-night operation.

We’re talking about a company that has consistently evolved its platform to serve a very particular niche.

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The core promise here is to revolutionize how organizations manage and share their information, especially for those serving patrons with specific accessibility needs. They’re not just offering software.

They’re offering a pathway to make your library or information center more dynamic, user-friendly, and impactful.

If you’re running a specialized library and looking to level up your operations, Klas.com aims to be your go-to solution.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Unpacking the Keystone Library Automation System KLAS

The Keystone Library Automation System, or KLAS, is positioned as an integrated library system ILS that goes beyond the conventional.

It’s built on a foundation of professional cataloging and circulation practices, but with a critical twist: it’s tailored for specialized organizations.

This means it’s designed to handle the nuances that a typical public or academic library ILS might overlook, making it particularly valuable for institutions with unique collections or patron needs.

Core Features of KLAS

KLAS offers a suite of functionalities that cover the breadth of library operations, from collection management to patron services.

• Cataloging and Circulation: At its heart, KLAS provides robust tools for managing your collection. This includes detailed cataloging capabilities, ensuring accurate and thorough metadata for all your materials. On the circulation side, it handles everything from check-outs and check-ins to renewals and holds, all designed to be efficient and user-friendly for library staff. This isn’t just about moving books. it’s about efficient management of unique resources like talking books or specialized instructional materials.
• Patron Profiles and Matching: A standout feature, particularly for talking book libraries, is the ability to maintain detailed personal profiles for each reader. This isn’t just about tracking borrowing history. it’s about understanding interests. KLAS then leverages this information to actively match materials to a reader, offering a highly personalized experience. Imagine a system that automatically suggests books a patron would love based on their preferences – that’s the kind of proactive service KLAS aims to deliver.
• Online Public Access Catalog OPAC: The KLAS OPAC empowers patrons to take control. It allows them to search, find, and even download materials independently. This self-service model not only improves efficiency for library staff but also enhances the user experience, giving patrons direct access to the collection anytime, anywhere. This extends beyond basic search. it’s about providing a seamless gateway to the library’s digital resources.
• Scribe Duplication System: For talking book libraries, this is a must. The Scribe Duplication System streamlines the process of duplicating accessible materials, ensuring that patrons receive their content efficiently. The website highlights a success story from the Georgia Library for Accessible Statewide Services GLASS, which transitioned to “duplication on demand using the NLS Gutenburg equipment” with KLAS’s support, noting a smooth transition and improved patron satisfaction. This speaks volumes about KLAS’s ability to integrate with specialized hardware and workflows.
• SHELF Project Integration: While details on the SHELF Project are somewhat limited on the homepage, its inclusion suggests KLAS’s ability to integrate with or support specific library initiatives aimed at optimizing resource sharing or collection management. Further investigation would be needed to fully understand its scope, but its presence signals a commitment to broader library ecosystem interoperability.

Specialized Focus for Niche Libraries

What truly sets KLAS apart is its dedicated focus on specific market segments, understanding their unique operational demands. Repzo.com Reviews

• Talking Book Libraries: This is clearly a primary focus. KLAS offers specific capabilities tailored for NLS National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled libraries, including automatic selection of books for borrowers based on their personal profiles and borrower self-service through the online catalog. The testimonials from the Colorado Talking Book Library and GLASS underscore KLAS’s effectiveness in this domain, praising its ability to adapt to their specific needs and technological shifts like duplication on demand.
• Instructional Resource Centers IRCs: For IRCs, KLAS provides tools to track requests for materials through their full lifecycle, manage APH American Printing House for the Blind quota funds, and allow school staff to enter requests for materials online. This addresses the unique administrative and resource management challenges faced by centers providing educational materials, often in accessible formats. The testimonial from the California Department of Education highlights Keystone’s partnership approach in customizing the software for IRCs.
• Associations: KLAS helps associations provide members with access to information resources, allow members to supply and/or rate content, and proactively alert members of new content matching their interests. This transforms an association’s information repository into a dynamic, member-centric platform, improving membership value and engagement. It’s about leveraging the collective knowledge of a community.

Dedicated Support and Implementation Services

One of the recurring themes across Klas.com’s presentation and user testimonials is the emphasis on dedicated support and comprehensive implementation services. This isn’t just about providing a product. it’s about fostering a long-term partnership.

A Philosophy of Understanding

Keystone Systems prides itself on a support philosophy built on understanding each organization’s unique needs. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. As Debbi MacLeod, Director of the Colorado Talking Book Library, notes, “Their philosophy is based on understanding you, and going the extra step to understand how to best solve your problems.” This suggests a proactive and client-centric approach to problem-solving, rather than simply reacting to issues.

• Low Staff Turnover: A key indicator of strong support is often low staff turnover within the support team. The website highlights this, with MacLeod stating, “Their staff turnover is very low so there is real institutional knowledge which makes it easier to problem solve.” This translates to consistent, knowledgeable assistance, meaning clients aren’t constantly re-explaining their history or issues to new representatives. This institutional knowledge is invaluable for complex systems.

Seamless Implementation and Training

Implementing a new ILS can be a daunting task, but Klas.com aims to make this process as smooth as possible through its implementation services.

• Guided Transition: The website suggests that transitions to new features or systems are “seamless.” Pat Herndon, Assistant State Librarian & Director of GLASS, recounts their transition to duplication on demand, stating, “Our library’s transition went smoothly. NLS and Keystone worked together to make this fundamental change in service delivery as seamless as possible.” This indicates a structured, collaborative approach to implementation.
• Comprehensive Training: For new developments and upgrades, Keystone ensures that staff receive “all the training needed to make the transition easily and comfortably.” This commitment to thorough training minimizes disruption and maximizes the adoption of new features, ensuring that libraries can fully leverage the system’s capabilities from day one. It’s about empowering users, not just installing software.
• Responsive Problem Solving: The testimonials repeatedly praise the responsiveness of the Keystone team. Kim Charlson, Executive Director of Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library, emphasizes, “If questions arise, the Keystone team is there to answer and help us figure out the solutions. They don’t leave us stranded.” This level of responsiveness is critical for mission-critical library systems, ensuring that operations run smoothly and patrons are served without interruption.

The Vibrant KLAS User Community

Beyond the software itself, Klas.com actively cultivates a vibrant user community. This isn’t just a marketing buzzword. it’s a strategic component of their ecosystem, fostering knowledge sharing, collaboration, and continuous improvement among users.

The KLAS Users’ Group

The core of this community is the KLAS Users’ Group, described as being made up of “librarians and staff of the over 85 libraries across the United States who use KLAS to serve their patrons.” This number — over 85 libraries — indicates a significant and active user base, which translates into a rich pool of shared experiences and best practices. Accoxi.com Reviews

• Shared Knowledge Base: A large user group naturally creates a robust repository of shared knowledge. Users can learn from each other’s implementations, troubleshoot common issues, and discover innovative ways to leverage KLAS features. This collective intelligence often surpasses what any single vendor support team can provide.
• Direct Feedback Channel: A strong user community also serves as a vital feedback loop for the vendor. When users discuss challenges or express needs, it provides invaluable input for future software development and enhancements. This collaborative development cycle ensures that KLAS evolves in ways that genuinely benefit its users.

KLASusers.com: The Online Hub

The dedicated website, KLASusers.com, acts as the central online hub for this community.

It provides a structured environment for interaction and information dissemination.

• Annual Users’ Group Conference: A cornerstone of the community, the annual conference offers an opportunity for users to connect in person, attend workshops, share insights, and learn directly from Keystone staff. The mention of the “2024 KLASUsers’ Mini-Conference” indicates ongoing engagement and knowledge transfer. These conferences are invaluable for networking and deep-into system functionalities.
• Release Lists and Discussion Forums: These features are crucial for keeping users informed and facilitating peer-to-peer support. Release lists ensure users are up-to-date on new features and bug fixes, while discussion forums provide a platform for asking questions, sharing solutions, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving. This is where the real-time knowledge exchange happens.
• Recorded Webinars: The availability of recorded webinars is a powerful resource for ongoing learning and training. Users can access these at their convenience, reinforcing their understanding of specific features or catching up on topics they might have missed. This flexibility is a significant benefit for busy library professionals.

The Julie Klauber Award

The inclusion of the “Julie Klauber Award” adds another layer of depth to the community, highlighting recognition and excellence among users.

• Recognizing Excellence: This award, with a list of past winners e.g., Kim Tomlinson in 2023, Alycia Ensminger in 2021, publicly acknowledges outstanding contributions or innovative uses of KLAS within the library community. It fosters a sense of achievement and inspires others to push the boundaries of what’s possible with the system.
• Inspiring Best Practices: By showcasing award winners, Keystone Systems indirectly promotes best practices and exemplary implementations of KLAS. This serves as a valuable learning tool for other users, providing concrete examples of successful strategies.

Accessibility and Special Needs Integration

A profound strength of KLAS, intrinsically linked to its target markets, is its deep commitment to accessibility and the integration of features that cater to special needs patrons. This isn’t just about compliance. it’s about empowerment.

Designing for Universal Access

The very nature of talking book libraries and instructional resource centers implies a user base with diverse needs, often including visual impairments or other disabilities. Visabug.com Reviews

KLAS is built from the ground up to address these requirements, ensuring that information is available to everyone.

• Personal Profiles for Accessibility Needs: As mentioned previously, the system’s ability to maintain detailed personal profiles for patrons extends to tracking their specific accessibility needs. This allows libraries to proactively deliver materials in formats suitable for individual users, whether that’s audio, large print, or braille. This goes beyond simply providing accessible materials. it’s about understanding and responding to individual patron requirements.
• Online Public Access Catalogue OPAC with Accessibility in Mind: While the website doesn’t detail specific WCAG compliance levels, the emphasis on empowering users to “search, find, and download materials on their own” strongly suggests that the OPAC is designed to be accessible. This would typically include features like screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and customizable display options, crucial for patrons who rely on assistive technologies.
• Support for Specialized Equipment: The successful integration with “NLS Gutenburg equipment” for duplication on demand highlights KLAS’s capacity to interface with specialized hardware used in accessible services. This is a critical technical capability that ensures a seamless workflow for libraries producing and distributing accessible content. This shows a real-world application of their commitment to the unique needs of their clientele.

Facilitating Information for All

The broader impact of KLAS’s accessibility features is the removal of barriers to information access, fostering inclusivity within the library and information services sector.

• Bridging the Information Gap: By providing robust tools for managing and distributing accessible materials, KLAS directly contributes to bridging the information gap for individuals who might otherwise struggle to access traditional print resources. This is particularly vital for educational materials and leisure reading alike.
• Empowering Patrons: The self-service options, personalized material matching, and efficient duplication processes empower patrons to engage with library services independently and efficiently. This fosters a sense of autonomy and enhances their overall experience, moving beyond mere compliance to genuine user empowerment.
• Strategic Advantage for Libraries: For libraries and resource centers serving these specific populations, using a system like KLAS that is purpose-built for accessibility offers a significant strategic advantage. It allows them to provide superior service, operate more efficiently, and demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusivity, which can be a key differentiator in their community.

Technology and Infrastructure Behind KLAS

While the Klas.com homepage focuses heavily on features and user benefits, a closer look reveals that the underlying technology and infrastructure are designed for reliability, scalability, and seamless integration.

The testimonials hint at a system that has evolved with technological advancements over decades.

Evolution Over 30+ Years

Keystone Systems has been in the game for over 30 years, a testament to their adaptability and consistent development. This isn’t a static product. Whereby.com Reviews

It’s one that has undergone numerous iterations and upgrades.

• Proven Reliability: The longevity of the company and its relationships with clients some for over 30 years speaks volumes about the system’s stability and reliability. Libraries rely on their ILS for daily operations, and a system prone to downtime or errors would quickly lose client trust. KLAS appears to have a strong track record in this regard.

Hosting and Deployment Options

The mention of “Hosting Services” indicates flexibility in how KLAS can be deployed, catering to different organizational IT strategies and preferences.

• Cloud-Based Hosting: Offering hosting services typically means a cloud-based deployment option, where Keystone manages the server infrastructure, backups, security, and maintenance. This can be a significant advantage for libraries with limited IT staff or those looking to reduce their on-premise infrastructure costs and complexity. It allows libraries to focus on their core mission rather than IT administration.
• On-Premise Deployment Implied: While not explicitly stated, the presence of hosting services usually implies that an on-premise deployment option where the library hosts the software on its own servers is also available. This offers greater control over data and customization for organizations with specific security or regulatory requirements. The flexibility to choose is a key benefit.

Integration Capabilities

The mention of integration with “NLS Gutenburg equipment” and the general context of managing diverse library resources points to a system designed for interoperability.

• API or Standard Protocols: For a system to seamlessly integrate with external hardware or other library tools, it typically relies on robust APIs Application Programming Interfaces or adherence to industry-standard protocols e.g., Z39.50 for searching, SIP2 for self-check machines. While not detailed on the homepage, these underlying capabilities are essential for an integrated library system to function effectively within a broader ecosystem.
• Data Migration Expertise: When libraries transition to KLAS, there’s an implicit need for data migration services. Keystone’s “seamless” implementation suggests they have well-defined processes and expertise in migrating existing library data from legacy systems, ensuring data integrity and minimizing disruption during the switch. This is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of ILS implementation.

Client Testimonials and Success Stories

The Klas.com website prominently features client testimonials and success stories, which serve as powerful social proof and provide tangible evidence of the system’s impact. These aren’t just generic endorsements.

They highlight specific benefits and long-term relationships. Knowable.com Reviews

Credibility Through Long-Standing Relationships

A recurring theme in the testimonials is the longevity of the client relationships, which adds significant credibility to Keystone Systems and KLAS.

Specific Examples of Impact

The testimonials don’t just offer general praise.

They provide concrete examples of how KLAS has positively impacted library operations and patron services.

• Improved Efficiency Colorado Talking Book Library: MacLeod explicitly mentions how KLAS features have made her library “more efficient,” a direct and measurable benefit for any organization. This efficiency often translates to better resource allocation and improved staff productivity.
• Seamless Technology Transitions GLASS: Pat Herndon’s account of transitioning to “duplication on demand using the NLS Gutenburg equipment” highlights KLAS’s capacity to facilitate complex technological shifts smoothly. This demonstrates the system’s adaptability and Keystone’s proactive support in adopting cutting-edge solutions. The “smooth” transition underscores effective planning and execution.
• Customization and Partnership California Department of Education IRC: Cyndi Reimer praises Keystone’s “dedication to their product, prompt customer service, and willingness to partner with us have helped to customize the KLAS software to create a useful tool in our work.” This points to a collaborative approach where KLAS can be tailored to fit unique workflows, a critical feature for specialized resource centers. It’s not just off-the-shelf software. it’s a configurable solution.
• Reliability and Responsiveness Perkins Library: Charlson’s statement, “I found that reliability, value, customer service, responsiveness, and innovation with Keystone Systems,” covers all the critical bases for an ILS vendor. Her assertion that “They don’t leave us stranded” speaks volumes about the proactive and reliable support, crucial for continuous library operations.

Highlighting Support Quality

The testimonials also reinforce the strong message about Keystone’s dedicated support team.

• Institutional Knowledge: MacLeod’s observation about low staff turnover and “real institutional knowledge” in the support team is a significant selling point. It means clients interact with experienced professionals who understand their specific context and history, leading to quicker and more effective problem-solving.
• Consistent Training: Charlson’s mention of “the customer service team makes sure our staff get all the training needed to make the transition easily and comfortably” emphasizes Keystone’s commitment to user adoption and ongoing proficiency, which is vital for maximizing software utility.

Comparing KLAS to Other ILS Solutions

The Niche Advantage: Specialized vs. General

Most mainstream ILS platforms, such as Ex Libris Alma, OCLC WorldShare Management Services, or SirsiDynix Symphony, are designed for broad application across various library types. Pleo.com Reviews

They offer comprehensive modules for acquisitions, cataloging, circulation, serials, and reporting.

• General ILS Strengths: These general systems excel in handling large, diverse collections, supporting complex interlibrary loan networks, and often integrating with university-wide systems or large public library consortia. They typically have vast user communities and extensive third-party integrations. Their focus is often on scalability for sheer volume and diverse patron demographics.
• KLAS’s Specialized Strength: KLAS, in contrast, focuses on depth within its specific niche. Its strengths lie in:
  • Accessibility-Centric Design: Features like detailed patron profiles for interests and accessibility needs, automatic material matching, and integration with duplication equipment like NLS Gutenburg are not standard in general ILS solutions. These are built into the core of KLAS, reflecting its primary user base.
  • Resource Center Specifics: The ability to manage APH quota funds or track instructional material requests through their lifecycle are highly specific functionalities that a general ILS would likely not offer out-of-the-box, or would require significant, costly customization.
  • Association Management: The features for managing member access to resources, allowing member content submission, and proactive content alerts are akin to robust association management software, integrated directly into a library automation system. This blend is rare.

Customization and Partnership Model

The testimonials strongly suggest that Keystone Systems operates on a partnership model, working closely with clients to customize KLAS to their specific workflows.

• Tailored Solutions: Unlike some larger ILS vendors where customization might be limited or come at a premium, Keystone appears to have a reputation for collaborating to “design several key features” or “customize the KLAS software” to meet unique needs. This level of flexibility is often crucial for specialized libraries whose operations deviate from the norm.
• Lower Barrier to Entry for Niche Needs: For a talking book library or an instructional resource center, trying to adapt a general-purpose ILS to their highly specific requirements could be incredibly challenging, time-consuming, and expensive. KLAS, by being purpose-built, likely offers a much lower “total cost of ownership” when considering customization and ongoing support for niche functionalities.

Community and Support Focus

While large ILS vendors have extensive support networks and user groups, the KLAS user community appears to be tightly knit and highly focused on shared challenges within their specific niches.

• Targeted Knowledge Sharing: A community of 85+ specialized libraries using the same system means discussions, webinars, and conferences are highly relevant to each member’s daily operations. This contrasts with a broader ILS community where topics might be more diverse, making it harder to find highly specific solutions for niche problems.
• Personalized Support: The emphasis on “understanding you” and low staff turnover translates to a more personalized and knowledgeable support experience, which can be invaluable for complex, specialized operations. This direct, long-term relationship with the vendor is a significant advantage.

In essence, while KLAS might not compete directly with the sheer scale or breadth of the largest ILS providers, its strength lies in its deep specialization and tailored approach. For organizations serving accessible populations or managing highly specific resource centers and associations, KLAS offers a purpose-built solution that likely provides a more efficient, relevant, and cost-effective answer than attempting to retrofit a general-purpose ILS. It’s about being the best solution for a specific problem, rather than trying to be all things to all libraries.

News and Events: Staying Current with KLAS

The “News / Events” section on Klas.com is more than just a placeholder. Riskimmune.ai Reviews

It indicates an active company that engages with its user base and the broader library community.

Keeping up with these updates is crucial for current and prospective users to understand the ongoing development, community activities, and industry insights that Keystone Systems participates in.

Regular Updates and Announcements

The news section typically serves as a hub for announcements about new software releases, company milestones, and strategic partnerships.

• Company News: Announcements about growth, new team members, or awards can provide insights into the company’s health and trajectory. For instance, the Julie Klauber Award winners are prominently featured, highlighting individuals who have made significant contributions within the KLAS user community. This recognition reinforces the company’s commitment to its users.

User Group Conferences and Industry Participation

A significant part of the “Events” section revolves around the KLAS Users’ Group activities, underscoring Keystone’s commitment to its community.

• Annual Users’ Group Conference: The “2024 KLASUsers’ Mini-Conference” is listed, reinforcing the importance of these gatherings. These conferences are vital for:
  • Networking: Allowing users to connect, share experiences, and build professional relationships.
  • Training: Providing in-depth sessions on new features, best practices, and troubleshooting.
  • Feedback: Offering a direct channel for users to provide input on the software’s development and express their needs.
  • Vision Sharing: Enabling Keystone to share its future vision for KLAS and gather insights from its user base.
• Industry Events: While not explicitly stated on the provided homepage text, companies like Keystone Systems often attend or present at broader library conferences e.g., ALA, NLS conferences, state library association meetings. This participation allows them to stay abreast of industry trends, showcase KLAS to a wider audience, and engage with potential clients. The “Latest IRC / IMC News” suggests an active monitoring and engagement with specific sectors.

Staying Informed for Optimal Use

For current KLAS users, regularly checking the “News / Events” section and the KLASusers.com portal is essential for: Lunar.com Reviews

• Maximizing System Utilization: Learning about new features or functionalities helps libraries leverage KLAS to its full potential, improving efficiency and expanding services.
• Problem Prevention: Being aware of potential issues or recommended best practices from news updates can help prevent problems before they arise.
• Strategic Planning: Understanding the development roadmap and industry trends can inform a library’s strategic planning, ensuring their automation system aligns with future goals.

For prospective clients, this section demonstrates an active, engaged vendor.

A company that regularly communicates with its users and participates in industry events is often a strong indicator of a healthy, client-focused organization.

It suggests a partner that will continue to innovate and support its product, rather than becoming stagnant.

The “KLAS and You!” Perspective: A Partnership Approach

The “KLAS and You!” section, while a small heading on the website, encapsulates Keystone Systems’ overarching philosophy: that implementing KLAS is not just a transaction but the beginning of a partnership. This ethos is woven throughout their messaging and reinforced by client testimonials, highlighting a collaborative and supportive relationship.

Understanding Your Unique Context

At the heart of this partnership is a commitment to understanding each organization’s specific context and challenges. Cnet.com Reviews

This is critical for special libraries, where “off-the-shelf” solutions often fall short.

• Tailored Solutions: The website states, “At Keystone, we pride ourselves on the support that we provide. Our philosophy is based on understanding you, and going the extra step to understand how to best solve your problems.” This isn’t just about software. it’s about problem-solving through technology. For example, the Colorado Talking Book Library testimonial notes that Keystone “worked with us to design several key features in KLAS that helped our library be more efficient.” This speaks to a willingness to customize and co-create solutions.
• Beyond Generic Support: This approach moves beyond generic IT support. It involves deeply understanding the library’s workflow, patron demographics, collection specifics, and long-term goals to ensure KLAS truly enhances their operations.

Collaborative Development and Feedback

The “KLAS and You!” perspective also implies an open channel for feedback and collaborative development.

• User-Driven Enhancements: While not explicitly stated as “user-driven development,” the consistent improvements and “seamless” transitions to new features as noted by Perkins Library suggest that user input plays a significant role in KLAS’s evolution. The vibrant “Users’ Community” and its discussion forums and conferences are clear mechanisms for gathering this feedback. This ensures that KLAS develops in ways that genuinely benefit its users.
• Long-Term Vision Alignment: A true partnership means aligning the vendor’s product roadmap with the client’s strategic vision. By understanding client needs, Keystone can ensure KLAS continues to meet and anticipate the challenges faced by special libraries, fostering long-term relevance and value.

Dedicated Support as a Cornerstone

The support services offered by Keystone are not merely a post-sale service.

They are an integral part of the “KLAS and You!” partnership.

• Proactive Assistance: The testimonials highlight proactive support, ensuring clients don’t feel “stranded.” This means troubleshooting, training, and guidance are readily available and often anticipated, preventing minor issues from escalating.
• Relationship Building: The low staff turnover in Keystone’s support team, as praised by clients, enables long-term relationships between library staff and Keystone personnel. This continuity fosters trust and efficiency, as support agents gain an intimate understanding of individual client systems and histories.

In essence, “KLAS and You!” is a declaration of Keystone Systems’ commitment to being more than just a software provider. Noknok.com Reviews

It signifies a dedicated partner in the library’s mission, working collaboratively to leverage technology for improved service, efficiency, and accessibility for their unique patron base.

This partnership model is a significant differentiator, particularly for specialized organizations seeking a highly customized and supportive ILS experience.

3. Frequently Asked Questions 20 Real Questions + Full Answers

What is Klas.com?

Klas.com refers to the Keystone Library Automation System KLAS, an integrated library system ILS developed by Keystone Systems, Inc.

It is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of special libraries, including talking book libraries, instructional resource centers, and associations.

What types of libraries does KLAS primarily serve?

KLAS primarily serves specialized libraries such as Talking Book Libraries especially those affiliated with NLS, Instructional Resource Centers, and Associations that manage information resources for their members. Flipfile.com Reviews

How long has Keystone Systems been developing KLAS?

Keystone Systems has been developing KLAS for over 30 years, demonstrating a long history of expertise and continuous development in the library automation field.

What are the core features of KLAS?

Core features of KLAS include professional cataloging and circulation, patron profile management including interests and accessibility needs, an Online Public Access Catalog OPAC for self-service, the Scribe Duplication System for accessible materials, and integration capabilities for various library initiatives.

Does KLAS offer an online catalog for patrons?

Yes, KLAS features a robust Online Public Access Catalog OPAC that allows patrons to search, find, and download materials independently, promoting self-service and broader access to the collection.

Can KLAS help manage accessible materials like talking books?

Yes, KLAS is specifically designed to manage accessible materials.

It includes functionalities like automatic selection of books based on patron profiles, integration with NLS Gutenburg equipment for duplication on demand, and features tailored for talking book libraries. Werk-2.com Reviews

What is the Scribe Duplication System?

The Scribe Duplication System is a KLAS feature that streamlines the process of duplicating accessible materials, such as talking books, ensuring efficient production and distribution to patrons.

How does KLAS support Instructional Resource Centers?

For Instructional Resource Centers, KLAS helps track requests for materials, manage APH American Printing House for the Blind quota funds, and enables school staff to submit material requests online, streamlining their specific workflows.

What kind of support does Keystone Systems offer for KLAS?

Keystone Systems offers dedicated support, emphasizing a philosophy of understanding each organization’s unique needs.

They are known for low staff turnover, institutional knowledge, comprehensive training, and responsive problem-solving, fostering long-term client partnerships.

Is there a user community for KLAS?

Yes, KLAS has a vibrant user community known as the KLAS Users’ Group, composed of librarians and staff from over 85 libraries across the U.S. Getreminded.com Reviews

They have an online hub, KLASusers.com, for forums, webinars, and conference information.

What is KLASusers.com?

KLASusers.com is the dedicated online portal for the KLAS Users’ Group.

It provides resources such as information about the annual Users’ Group conference, release lists, discussion forums, and recorded webinars for the KLAS community.

Does KLAS offer training for new users or updates?

Yes, Keystone Systems ensures that staff receive all the necessary training for new developments and upgrades to KLAS, aiming to make transitions seamless and comfortable for library personnel.

Can KLAS be customized to fit specific library needs?

Yes, testimonials indicate that Keystone Systems is willing to partner with clients to customize the KLAS software, designing specific features to meet unique operational needs of specialized libraries and resource centers. Coblossom.com Reviews

How does KLAS enhance accessibility for patrons?

KLAS enhances accessibility by maintaining detailed patron profiles for interests and accessibility needs, allowing for automatic material matching, supporting self-service through its accessible OPAC, and integrating with specialized equipment for accessible content production.

What is the Julie Klauber Award?

The Julie Klauber Award is an award presented by Keystone Systems, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions or demonstrated excellence within the KLAS user community. Past winners are listed on the website.

Does Klas.com offer hosting services for KLAS?

Yes, Klas.com Keystone Systems offers hosting services, providing a cloud-based deployment option where they manage the server infrastructure, backups, security, and maintenance of the KLAS system for their clients.

How many libraries currently use KLAS?

According to the website, over 85 libraries across the United States currently use KLAS to serve their patrons, indicating a substantial and active user base.

Can associations use KLAS to manage their information resources?

Yes, KLAS is designed to help associations provide members with access to information resources, allow members to supply and rate content, and proactively alert members to new content that matches their interests, enhancing membership value. Landa.com Reviews

What distinguishes KLAS from general-purpose integrated library systems?

KLAS is distinguished by its deep specialization for niche markets talking book libraries, IRCs, associations, offering features like detailed accessibility profiles, NLS equipment integration, and APH fund management, which are typically not found in standard ILS solutions.

Where can I find news and events related to KLAS?

News and events related to KLAS, including information on the annual Users’ Group conference and other relevant updates, can be found in the “News / Events” section on Klas.com and on the KLASusers.com portal.