Beginning in September the SaddleBrooke Libraries implemented a new software system to better serve the residents. For the past several years two databases have been necessary to administer the library, one to check out books and one to reserve books. Now there will be just one software program to accomplish both tasks. After extensive review the Library Administrative Committee has selected Evolve, through Infovision Software, to be our new system.
We are very excited to be able to provide many new features to our patrons as a result of this new software. Some of the improvements are as follows:
* Sign into your library account and see what you currently have checked out
* Renew Books from home on your computer
* Reserve any item in the library instead of only the new books
* Email alerts—reminders your books are overdue, your reserved item is ready to pick up and other notifications
* View your transaction history to see books you have previously checked out
* Ask for printouts of items you have just checked out
The online catalog will be much improved over our old system. The subjects will have greater depth to help you locate exactly what you are looking for in nonfiction books. All the new books entered will have summaries included in the catalog record. More detail will be provided for all entries in the catalog.
Our volunteers will be trained to use the new program before we officially begin using it, but please be patient with us the first few weeks since it will be new to us as well as you. Just a reminder, we have a very large staff of over 80 residents who all volunteer their time and energy to keep our libraries running. In addition to our attendants at the desk we have numerous volunteers working behind the scenes processing library materials for the shelf and others who purchase new books, videos and audios.
We will have flyers available in all the libraries for you to pick up that will have the information you will need to begin using our new online catalog. In order to create your own account and access it from home you must first have a valid email address in the library’s database. This can only be accomplished by coming into either the SaddleBrooke or DesertView Library and having it entered into the system. Many patrons already have provided their email address, but to be sure about this please inquire with one of the volunteers at the desk. Once you have given us your email you can use the link http://libraryopac.infovisionsoftware.com:83/saddlebrooke/. From here you enter your bar code which is the phone number you use at the library to check out books (no dashes). Then click on Forgot your password? and the system will send you an email with a link to click on that allows you to create your own password for the Evolve On-Line Catalog.
In addition a new website has been developed to keep residents informed about the SaddleBrooke Library System, its collections, policies and frequently asked questions. That link is www.SBLibraries.org.
We thank you for your patience in this time of transition for the libraries. We know that the improvements will be well worth it.