Red Deer Public Library is launching ‘Bibliocommons’, a new way for patrons to explore the Library’s range of services.
Bibliocommons, a brand new library catalogue which will officially replace the existing ibistro catalogue on March 28, offers an interactive browsing experience shared with libraries throughout North America.
“This new catalogue system is absolutely amazing,” said Nicole Charles, IT Librarian. The on-line catalogue is fun and exciting to use in comparison to the old system, she said.
Bibliocommons boasts features such as picture and video uploads, read and write review options, Recently Returned Items and a ‘Your Permanent Shelf’ section.
Charles said staff members, who have already been using the system to prepare for the launch, are particularly fond of the Recently Returned Items and the Permanent Shelf section.
“How many times have you signed out a book or a movie, only to realize you have already read it or seen it? It happens to the best of us.”
The permanent shelf feature is an easy way for people to keep track of the items they have borrowed, which is particularly helpful for the ‘Homebound Readers’ volunteers who borrow items for shut-ins, she said.
“Our circulation staff members are often asked if we can track customer checkouts and with our old system we couldn’t. Now they can just sign in to the catalogue and all their information will be right there.”
A new upload feature allows for postings such as book trailers, which are a fairly new way to promote new releases and are gaining popularity with Internet users.
Along with the ability to publicly star rate items, or recommend items, people can share their favourite library materials such as books, DVDs and eBooks with their friends on Facebook and other social sites.
Bibliocommons is used by many libraries in Canada and the U.S. including New York Public Library, and links them together under one system so users can see comments and recommendations posted on other library systems.
“It’s social on so many levels and shared between so many libraries all under one on-line roof. All in all it’s the next step in the evolution of the library and we are very excited about the public launch.”
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