ELUNA 2024 Annual Meeting Report: Yasmine Malboubi

By Yasmine Malboubi, LSP Circulation Workgroup & Library Technician - Foothill College

Attending the ELUNA conference for the first time was an invaluable experience. As a space that brings together professionals utilizing Ex Libris' library management system, ELUNA offers a unique opportunity to stay abreast of the latest developments in library technology. From new product releases to changes in the system itself, ELUNA provides a platform for library professionals to learn about what's on the horizon.

One benefit of attending ELUNA is the access to experts in the industry. These experts share their knowledge, solutions, and techniques through presentations and workshops, providing attendees with valuable insights into addressing common library challenges. By learning from experienced professionals, attendees can streamline their library processes and improve their overall efficiency.

ELUNA also fosters a strong sense of community among library professionals. Attendees have the chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and learn about innovative solutions implemented in other libraries worldwide. This exchange of ideas can be incredibly beneficial for identifying new approaches to challenges and improving library services.

In addition to connecting with peers and learning from experts, ELUNA offers information about trends in library technologies and library management systems. They also hold many sessions and workshops covering Ex Libris’ wide range of services and products.

One of the new updates that particularly excited me was the enhanced search and set capabilities in ALMA. The ability to split the screen while working in ALMA, along with new scheduling enhancements and updates to title searching, has the potential to significantly improve efficiency and productivity.

Attending ELUNA is a great way to gain professional development and stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends. Moreover, it offers a unique opportunity to provide direct feedback to Ex Libris leaders on their library management system. By sharing your thoughts and suggestions, you can help shape the future of the system and ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of libraries.

In conclusion, ELUNA is a highly recommended conference for library professionals using ALMA. It offers a wealth of opportunities for learning, networking, and professional development. Whether you're seeking to stay informed about the latest technology trends, connect with peers, or contribute to the future of ALMA or other Ex Libris products, ELUNA is a valuable experience that I would highly recommend. 

I hope to be able to attend again in the future!