Our Story
Founded in Glasgow, United Kingdom, collectionHQ was introduced to the public library market in 2008 as a solution that would empower librarians to integrate the Evidence Based Stock Management (EBSM) methodology into their workflow. The only tool to deliver data-driven action plans, collectionHQ expanded rapidly across the U.K. and into the U.S.A., Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Before long, collectionHQ was the most talked about new technology in the public library industry and was revolutionizing how librarians managed their collections. In 2024, collectionHQ entered the academic library market with cHQacademic which was instantly recognized as a tool that would help librarians manage collections more efficiently. Today, collectionHQ continues to expand into new markets as a trusted partner of public and academic libraries.
Timeline
1990s
Evidence Based Stock Management (EBSM) methodology is discovered by Scottish Librarian, George Kerr.
2008
collectionHQ is founded and introduced to the UK and soon the U.S. public library markets.
2014
collectionHQ welcomes its first customers from Germany and Finland.
2015
collectionHQ and Baker & Taylor launch Evidence-based Selection Planning (ESP) service.
2016
collectionHQ adds a new Dashboard enabling users to monitor collection performance.
2019
collectionHQ takes on new office premises to support company growth.
2020
collectionHQ adds new functionality to support libraries impacted by COVID-19.
2021
collectionHQ introduces new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Analysis tool.
2022
collectionHQ launches cHQlite, a new collection management solution.
2024
collectionHQ enters the academic library market with the much-anticipated launch of cHQacademic.
2025
Montreal-based Valsoft Corporation acquires collectionHQ to support innovation to meet customer needs.
Our Purpose
Empowering libraries to create collections that inspire communities.
Leadership Team
Iain is Head of Technology and Operations. Since joining the company in 2010, Iain has played a key role in shaping our suite of products. From coding and building features, to leading software teams, and now overseeing security, compliance and cloud infrastructure.
Iain Brown
Head of Technology and Operations
Ollie has been with the company since 2010 and brings extensive experience in the IT industry. He now leads the successful delivery of products from implementation through to long-term customer success and support. Motivated by a passion for helping customers, he focuses on getting the most value from the suite of products, making every step of their journey simple, positive, and successful.
Ollie Downs
Head of Implementation and Support
Meryl is responsible for delivering an exceptional customer experience across all regions. With extensive experience in customer relations, she also leads our global Customer Success team. Passionate about helping libraries thrive, Meryl works to ensure the highest standard of customer-focused service is provided, supporting our customers worldwide in getting the most value from their subscriptions.
Meryl Emslie
Head of Customer Experience
With over 25 years of experience in software development, Dan is Director of Software Engineering at collectionHQ. Since joining in 2009, he has played a key role in building and evolving the company’s products, guiding teams to deliver reliable and innovative solutions. A lifelong supporter of libraries and an avid reader, he brings both technical expertise and personal passion to the role.
Dan Fish
Director of Software Engineering
Neil has been with the company since 2007, working across all areas of the application. With extensive experience in product strategy, development and delivery, he is passionate about creating solutions that meet real user needs and is committed to shaping the future of the product suite in an innovative, intuitive and customer-focused way.
Neil Kyle
Director of Product Management
Based in Glasgow, Scotland, Steve is responsible for the strategic direction of the company. He brings extensive experience in the Information Technology industry, overseeing product innovation, operational performance, and global business development, while ensuring that collectionHQ delivers measurable impact for libraries and the communities they serve.
Steven Legowski
Managing Director
Based near Glasgow, Scotland Jamie is the Vice President, Sales for APAC, Europe & North America. Jamie brings extensive experience working within the information technology industry, with a focus on sales. Leading a global team Jamie is motivated by delivering the highest standard of customer focused services.
Jamie Wright
Vice President, Sales
Locations
220 St Vincent Street,
Glasgow
G2 5SG
United Kingdom