The California State University (CSU) System has unified 23 four-year campuses on the Alma Library Platform platform—turning a group of independent library systems into a shared, efficient operation that scales.
Before Alma, each campus ran its own policies and workflows. Moving to Alma aligned campuses on shared implementations and unified practices, creating consistency and unlocking collaboration across the consortium.
CSU’s Systemwide Digital Library Services—a specialized group within Academic Technology Services at the Office of the Chancellor—coordinates the system’s Unified Library Management System (ULMS) and drives collaboration across campuses. A small central team works closely with library professionals serving on functional committees, task forces, and a steering committee to move initiatives forward. Proposals are discussed within these groups and, depending on scope, voted on by committee members or library leaders. Many expert committees are empowered to make decisions whose recommendations are adopted systemwide—creating a governance model that fosters trust, accountability, and efficient progress.
Looking ahead, CSU continues to centralize features and implementations so campuses don’t duplicate work. When new Alma capabilities arrive, the central office often manages rollout, saving time, money, and training effort across the system.
CSU encourages Alma consortia to join the ELUNA Consortial Community of Practice (CCOP) for shared learning and support. As Christina L. Hennessey, Director of the Unified Library Management System, notes:
“It is a great way to work with other consortia and learn you are not alone.”
By aligning on a unified platform, shared governance, and a central operating model, CSU demonstrates how collaboration reduces duplication, strengthens libraries, and supports sustainable growth.
Read more about the California State System customer story.
