Tolland Library to Overhaul Computer System

Over the Memorial Day weekend, when book lovers might be settled under the shade of a tree devouring their favorite novel, the system used to check out that book from the library will be getting a complete makeover.

With its software out of date and the vender no longer supporting the program, the Tolland Public Library’s computer system will receive a brand new interface to make it more user friendly and easier to maneuver for librarians.

From a patron’s perspective “it will be totally different from what they have now,” Director of Library Services Barbara Butler said this week.

The new system, part of an upgrade through Bibliomation, a consortium of more than 50 libraries in the state and a firm Tolland has contracted with for years for it’s digital services, will integrate all of the library’s functional areas, such as circulation and digital card catalogs. The work is being paid for through the regular annual fee the library pays to the company.

Patrons will still be able to renew and reserve books online and search for their availability, Butler said.

The system is billed to be one that is easier to use, but is one that will certainly take some getting used to. Butler said the library staff is being trained on the new system on Monday, May 23 (the library won’t open until 1 p.m. that day) so that they will be able to help patrons on a case-by-case basis as they get accustomed to the new system.

The library computer system will be down from Friday, May 27 at 3 p.m. until the new system goes live on Tuesday, May 31. Patrons also will not be able to use the library’s online service during that time, even remotely. Patrons will still be able renew, check out and registered at the library on Saturday; this work will be done manually.

The good news – other than an easier to use end product – is that patrons may be able to keep a book out longer than anticipated; the library will not accept returns from May 27 at 5 p.m. through June 2. The extended time period will allow staff to get comfortable with the system before

Here are some of the nitty-gritty details provided by the library:

• The online catalog will look different, but you will still have access to your account, including any lists you have saved in our former online catalog.
• To access your new online account, you will need to use your library card number as your user name. Your default password will be the last four digits of your phone number. You will be prompted to change your password the first time you log in.
• The new catalog features a simple-to-use basic search and a robust advanced search. Placing holds will no longer require entering your library card for each hold. Accessing the resources of the other libraries in our network has been streamlined, so the materials of over 50 other public libraries are a click away.
• If you have your email address on file with the library, you will automatically get alerts when your items are about to be due. You will also get hold notices and overdue notices in your email.
• If you have any questions, please call the library at 860-871-3620.