Libraries Evolve to Keep Pace with Technology
MADISON, Wis. (May 18, 2011) – DEMCO, Inc., a leading library supplier, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Evanced Solutions, a market leader in developing and distributing solutions allowing libraries to web-enable their services and streamline day-to-day management tasks.
“A decade ago, we developed our first library event management software. Now, we serve more than 2,000 libraries across the country,” said Todd Cutler, founder of Evanced Solutions. “We’re excited about the future with DEMCO and the opportunity to create even more solutions for our customers.”
Evanced Solutions is looking forward to the ability to produce new tools that increase efficiency, allow libraries to connect with customers, and better manage processes. Currently, the solutions offered are primarily library software tools that allow activities such as event calendaring and registration, facilitate summer reader programs, automate room reservations and more. The company’s summer reader software program provides an easy way to manage summer and year-round reading programs for customers of all ages.
Recently Evanced introduced an external library vending system called BranchAnywhere that brings a new level of access and convenience to library customers, allowing 24/7 library services anywhere in the community. Currently in the final stages of development, BranchAnywhere is a completely automated machine that houses hundreds to thousands of titles. Customers can check out or return books and audiovisual materials whenever it is convenient for them.
Evanced co-founder Rob Cullin said, “We have more ideas for new technology solutions than we have resources. DEMCO has a long track record of serving the library and education community; we know they will be a great partner in bringing innovative new technology solutions to libraries.”
The Evanced staff will continue to operate the business from their offices in Indianapolis, Ind., where their talented and growing team designs and develops innovative new technologies, manages customer service and provides technical support.
The acquisition comes at a time when many libraries are finding their budgets reduced and are looking for ways to increase services via information technology. As technology becomes increasingly important to the future of libraries, the acquisition of Evanced provides the opportunity for DEMCO to offer further services to their broad base of customers.
In addition, the role of libraries is changing and communities are relying upon them to meet a greater variety of needs ranging from assisting with new technology to providing a variety of spaces for collaborating and socializing. The pressure on libraries to deliver both new and traditional services has created a shift in spending and staffing priorities.
The DEMCO family of brands strives to stay in touch with customer needs and efficiently deliver a wide breadth of value-driven products and services allowing library staff to focus on serving their customers. DEMCO president Mike Grasee said, “The needs of librarians are changing rapidly and we are excited to give our customers expanded library products and services to meet these needs. Together, Evanced and DEMCO can help libraries do more by integrating supplies, furniture, educational products, security systems, software solutions and space design across all departments and services.”
DEMCO brings more than 100 years of experience serving librarians and educators combined with thousands of library products ranging from everyday supplies to security & automated handling systems, as well as a growing design portfolio which includes a variety projects featuring space planning, custom product development and complete project management services. Interior space planning has become more critical than ever as libraries and schools reinvent themselves within their communities.
“Evanced is a natural fit with DEMCO’s family of brands. Together, the companies will add new solutions to serve librarians and communities and support lifelong learning and enrichment for another century to come,” said Grasee.
About DEMCO, Inc.
DEMCO provides product and service solutions to libraries and schools to help them better meet the needs of their communities. Products include a full range of supplies, equipment, furniture and technology including a comprehensive interior design service for libraries and schools nationwide. Headquartered in Madison, Wis., DEMCO is a subsidiary of Wall Family Enterprise, a family-owned business including five other library and education-focused companies based in the United States and United Kingdom. For more information regarding DEMCO products and services, visit http://www.demco.com/ or call (800) 356-1200.
About Evanced Solutions
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Evanced Solutions offers software and dedicated service for libraries of all types and budgets. Online tools include event calendaring with online registration (Events), meeting room booking (Room Reserve), summer reading management (Summer Reader), and library materials vending (BranchAnywhere) all designed to better attract and engage the communities libraries serve. For a free webinar and for more information on Evanced Solutions and their products, visit http://www.evancedsolutions.com/ or call (888) 519-5770.
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Contact:
DEMCO:
Janet Nelson
Director, Industry and Media Relations
(608) 241-8568
janetn@demco.com
Evanced:
Rob Cullin
Chief Sales Officer
(317) 275-2702
rcullin@evancedsolutions.com
