We Read the Release Notes So You Don't Have To
One year into Shelf Help, here’s what we’ve learned about making library systems feel less like a black box.
Alevtina Verbovetskaya
University Director of Library Systems
Leading digital transformation and technology innovation in academic library systems at The City University of New York. Passionate about creating accessible, efficient, and user-centered information systems.
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Leadership & Vision
As University Director of Library Systems at CUNY, I oversee the strategic planning and implementation of library technology infrastructure across multiple campuses, ensuring seamless access to information resources for students, faculty, and researchers.
Innovation Focus
I drive practical innovation by implementing and integrating technologies that improve library services. My work enhances discovery, transparency, accessibility, and the user experience across the CUNY system.
Professional Experience
Current Position
University Director of Library Systems
The City University of New York
Leading technology strategy and operations for CUNY's library system, managing enterprise-level implementations, and fostering collaboration across 25+ campus libraries to deliver innovative information services.
Key Achievements
• Led CUNY-wide migration to a next-generation library services platform
• Strengthened system integrations across library and university-wide technologies
• Enhanced user experience through modern discovery interfaces
• Built a collaborative, mission-driven team culture
Areas of Expertise
Library Systems Strategy
Enterprise platforms (Alma, Primo VE), system migrations, discovery optimization, digital infrastructure planning
Project Leadership & Implementation
Strategic planning, vendor management, cross-campus coordination, change management
User Experience & Web Services
Interface design, accessibility, authentication (SSO), custom tools for service transparency
Team & Organizational Development
Team leadership, staff mentoring, operational governance, collaborative culture-building
Presentations & Speaking
Selected highlights from 20+ presentations at international, national, and regional conferences since 2009, including invited talks on library technology, mobile services, and system implementation.
AFN and P2P: Sharing resources harmoniously
Exploring strategies for harmonious resource sharing between Alma Fulfillment Network and peer-to-peer systems in academic library environments.
To NZ, or not to NZ, that is the question
Strategic considerations for Network Zone participation in Alma, examining the benefits and challenges for multi-campus library systems.
One search, many systems: The ins and outs of Primo at CUNY
Comprehensive overview of Primo implementation across CUNY's diverse library ecosystem, addressing integration challenges and user experience optimization.
Text me, maybe: Implementing texting functionality in the Aleph OPAC
Innovative approach to mobile engagement in library services through SMS integration in the library catalog system.
Managing a three-ring circus: Upgrading Aleph, implementing Primo, and maintaining support
Project management strategies for complex library system migrations while maintaining service quality for a quarter million users.
Aleph-to-go: How CUNY adapted Aleph for a mobile population
Pioneering mobile adaptations for library management systems to serve an increasingly mobile academic community.
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Contact
Office
555 W 57th St, 16th Fl
New York, NY 10019
New York, NY 10019