Library to Debut Online Catalog
Technical Upgrade to Result in Temporary Suspension of Certain Services
Patrons of the Santa Barbara public library system will soon be browsing a new online catalog – one with not only a new look but improved search capabilities as well.
Beginning May 28, library users may also appreciate some of the other new features of the online catalog. They will be able to place a request from home for a specific volume or part of a series, see the number of holds pending on a particular item, and sign up for RSS feeds for books and DVDs newly added to the library collection.
In preparation for the transition, the library is suspending two services. Patrons cannot place any hold requests until after May 28 and any materials they return between May 22 and May 27 will not be checked in until the new system is in up and running. In addition to revamping the online catalog, the library is also changing its notification system. To eliminate the paper waste of printed notices as well as save money, the library system will inform people that they have overdue items or hold requests ready for pick-up only by telephone or email. All public libraries in Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo will be affected by these changes, as they use a shared library system.
