New, Improved Catalog System at Emma Clark Library

Emma Clark Library rolled out a new catalog system last week and is now part of the Partnership of Automated Libraries (PALS). The PALS consortium runs a library services platform with 49 libraries throughout Suffolk County, and the shared product – developed by Innovative Interfaces, Inc. (III) – increases efficiency and ease-of-use for both patrons and library employees.

In addition to a 61% annual cost savings, how does this change benefit the library patron?

· Patrons are now able to create their own usernames, rather than remembering long library card barcode numbers.

· Patrons have the option to pay fines online and receive SMS text alerts.

· There are quicker turnaround times for items on hold because they are pulled from the entire pool of Suffolk County libraries.

· It’s much faster to borrow items from other Suffolk County libraries. In just 1 click, the request is automatically put into other libraries, without the patron having to specifically request an interlibrary loan. The item is then delivered to Emma Clark Library for pick-up or can be delivered to other Suffolk libraries as well.

· The shared catalog makes it easier to discover more content for both physical (books, movies, etc.) and online (databases, eBooks, etc.) items.

· Patrons now have the ability to renew an item up to 6 times (as long as no other patrons have placed a hold on the item).

· Patrons may choose to store preferred searches and receive email alerts when new items are available that meet that requirement.

· Search results now include patron reviews and recommendations for items in the catalog.

· There is a dedicated staff for the PALS data center, which means improved technical support and reliability.

· This consortium is one of the largest and most heavily used of all Innovative Interfaces customers, which gives the group priority when putting in requests or handling any issues.

If you need assistance any new features, visit www.emmaclark.org/catalogguides/

Printed out guides are also available at the library by the Adult Reference Desk.

Still need help? Email askus@emmaclark.org or call 631.941.4080, and a librarian will be happy to assist you.

The Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, located at 120 Main Street in Setauket and on the web at www.emmaclark.org, provides public library service to all residents of the Three Village Central School District.

“The Heart of the Three Village Community”