Mandarin Library Automation, Inc. has announced that it has begun offering the basic Mandarin M3 library management software package as a free download. The software download is available at http://www.mlasolutions.com, or a free CD can be requested from by e-mail from automation@mlasolutions.com ($14.95 shipping fee applies in the U.S. and Canada). The free download offer comes as Mandarin shifts focus to being more services-based and releases its new Oasis automation system. (See Mandarin Library Automation Releases Oasis Web-Based Library Management Software System.)
The download of M3 includes OPAC, Cataloging, Circulation (includes basic reporting), Inventory, and Group Editor. An annual Service & Update Agreement for M3 is available at $575 per site. The agreement includes:
* M3 Report Generator and reports
* Unlimited technical support
* Product updates
* M3 utilities
* Access to Customer's Corner on the Mandarin Web site, which includes downloads, documentation, and the Mandarin Knowledge Base
* Membership to the Mandarin Listserv
Pricing for all M3 optional modules will remain the same. For a list of optional modules and prices, visit http://www.mlasolutions.com/products/pricing.htm.
Source: Mandarin Library Automation, Inc., http://www.mlasolutions.com