Spring of 2017 is bringing a big change to the Maitland Public Library. For twenty years, MPL has been using the same online catalog for books, movies, audiobooks, and magazines; while this catalog has evolved some over the years, we think we can do better for you.
On April 1, 2017, we’ll be bringing you the new TLC Library*Solution catalog, which is easier to use, faster, and designed to work great on all of your devices. One of the features we like best about this catalog is that you’ll be able to find and download e-books straight from your search results without having to log into Overdrive separately. It even has a catalog just for kids!
As we move the information about all of the items we own and all of our patrons to TLC, there are going to be a few bumps on the road. You can’t move 70,000 items instantly and be sure that the catalog still works right; plus, we really want to be sure your account stays straight. Here are some important dates to remember for things that might affect you:
Friday, February 17, 2017: We won’t be able to add any new books or movies to the old catalog beginning February 17 and the new catalog won’t be ready until the end of March. So, from February 17 to about April 1, we will still accept Suggestions for Purchase and we’ll pre-order books and movies, but we won’t be able to put the new items out on the shelf. We’ll still get them, but be prepared for a delay.
Friday, March 24, 2017: We’ll be turning off the ability to place new holds online so that your requests aren’t lost during the transition. You can still come pick up items on Saturday.
Sunday, March 26, through Tuesday, March 28, 2017: Installation Days! During the week of March 26, TLC staff will be here at the Library installing the new catalog on the staff computers, launching the new web catalog, and training Library staff. You will not be able to check any items in or out, renew items, or place holds these days; if you bring back a book or movie, we’ll hold onto it until we can check it in using the new catalog. But, don’t worry, you won’t have an overdue fine for that; we’ve made sure that no items will be due March 26-March 31, so you get extra time! We’ll still be here to help and programs like Heartfulness Meditation, Preschool Stories, and the Books To Die For Book Club will happen right on schedule.
One more note: your current PIN has extra privacy protections in our online catalog, so there’s no way for us to send that information to TLC with your other library card information. When the new catalog goes live on Tuesday, March 28, your PIN will automatically default to the last four digits of your telephone number; you’ll be able to change it online yourself later. This is a great time to make sure we have the right number for you!
Want to play with our new catalog early? Some of our Florida neighbors are using the same software and, while you won’t be able to log into your own account, you can see how searches for items work and what the results look like. Feel free to test out Brevard County Libraries or the Sanibel Public Library Children’s Catalog.