The SEREN project has developed software for automating document discovery, request, scanning and electronic transmission, using standard Internet protocols. The system is being tested in a co-operative of Higher Education libraries in Wales and its adoption as the software base for the all-Wales interlending co-operative, which spans the various library sectors, is anticipated. It is designed to have the minimum hardware requirements possible and to be of utility in the widest possible range of library and information services. The structure and operation of the software is described and its distinctive features outlined. The technical differences between software designed to support resource-sharing and software intended for purely commercial applications are addressed. Scalability and internationalisation issues are also covered.

SEREN uses Z39.50 for resource discovery, Internet mail for request and delivery with documents encoded as PNG files under MIME, and the TWAIN protocol to control the scanner. The use of these standards is discussed as is SEREN's requirement for richer messaging than that provided by the ILL protocol.