Ryan Edwards – ELUNA Steering Committee (2024-2027) – Secretary, liaison to Rialto
West Los Angeles College (Culver City, CA United States)
Ex Libris Products: Alma and Primo VE
With over two decades of professional experience in the field of library systems, I have dedicated myself to supporting and advancing the technological infrastructure of both public and private institutions.
Presently, I proudly hold the position of tenured Systems/Electronic Resources Librarian at West Los Angeles College, one of the 9 colleges in the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD). As a devoted professional within the California Community College system, I serve not only as a librarian but also as a liaison for initiatives crucial to the academic success of our students. This includes my role as the Academic Senate for Community Colleges (ASCCC) Open Education Resources Initiative (OERI) Liaison and Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) Degree Program Grant Faculty Coordinator, where I spearhead our College’s efforts to promote accessible and affordable educational materials.
Additionally, my commitment to the improvement of library services extends beyond the confines of West Los Angeles College. I actively contribute to statewide initiatives, serving on both the California Community Colleges (CCC) Library Services Platform (LSP) Governance Committee and the CCC LSP Discovery and UX Work Group. Through these roles, I advocate for the enhancement of library systems across the 116 California Community Colleges.
Throughout my career, I have played integral roles in implementing and managing various library systems, including a Voyager ILS, a SirsiDynix Symphony ILS, Alma, Primo, Primo VE, Rosetta, Summon, BookMyne+, a Social Library Facebook application, Tech Logic RFID system, Ezproxy database access, Linux-based website, streaming video server, DSpace digital institutional repository, ArchiveSpace, and new AHA! NERS system replacement. My expertise has been recognized by organizations such as the California Community Colleges, the Getty Research Institute, the University of Southern California (USC), California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI), and Pepperdine University Libraries.
Moreover, my passion for innovation in library technology has led me to explore the integration of Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning tools into library workflows, with a particular focus on Ex Libris products.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I find solace and joy in spending time with my family. Whether cheering on my daughter at her soccer games alongside my wife and younger son or enjoying leisurely walks with our dogs, these moments outside of work enrich my life immeasurably.
rev. 2024-05-22