New library catalogue for new year
NZICA has just upgraded its library catalogue system so members can now do more, and access more information.
Melissa Clarkson,
Library Team Leader
What is being upgraded?
The library is moving from its current system, DB text works, to a system called Koha. Koha is an open-source library software system, free to all libraries around the world and growing in popularity.
Why did you need to change systems?
The back end of the old system was very manual and time consuming. Koha is automated which means not only can we now serve members faster, but they can access more information independently. We now have a number of functions that members expect of a library catalogue system nowadays – we’ve moved with the times.
What can members do now that they couldn’t
do before?
There are a number of new functions.
- The search function is more refined so results will be based on relevance.
- Members can check the availability of an item, see what items they currently have out on loan, and reserve or renew items online.
- Members can see what items they have checked out in the past.
- They can view the covers of certain books.
- Members can create reading lists for themselves – items they are interested in that they can request one at a time in the future.
- Members can comment on an item and give it a star rating, similar to what you can do on websites like Amazon. This will help other members make informed reading choices based on recommendations.
Will there be more developments as time goes by?
Absolutely – Koha is always evolving so if there is a development prompted by another library, for example an iPhone or Android app, all libraries that use Koha will eventually get access to that new technology for their members.
How does this affect the Informed Professional Bulletin?
This used to sit on NZICA’s website as a long list. The new system makes it easier for members to request items directly, rather than having to send an email to library staff requesting material.
How will Koha make it quicker for members to access information in the future?
There are more searches and functions that members can now carry out independently. Also, they will be able to help themselves by seeing the items they have already read. For example, if there’s an article a member wants to view again, and they know they read it about six months ago, they can go through their records to find out more about this rather than needing to ask a staff member to help. Also, because systems and processes are automated, instead of it taking five minutes (literally!) to issue a book, it now takes 30 seconds.
Library staff will be happy about that – what kinds of projects does this mean they will be able to spend time on in the future?
While staff will still be available for any queries, they are looking forward to spending some time working on services that will add more value for members, such as more training for members on how to find information.
How do members access the new system?
The same way as before, by going to nzica.com/library. They do need to log in, so they can be identified as a user and receive their personalised profile which includes information like their current loan items.
How can members find out more about how to
use Koha?
There’s a free webinar on 15 February to teach members about the new library catalogue system.
What do members do if they encounter difficulties?
Simply contact library staff who can then help sort things out. We’re excited about these changes and are looking forward to hearing feedback from members.
February 2012