News

More Features, More Convenience

The Lackawanna County Library System will launch a new digital catalog on March 26 and patrons will notice the change in features and convenience not available with the current system.

The biggest change will be the action required for logging into the catalog. The new system will allow a patron to create a custom user name and password for access. Currently a user must enter his or her 14 digit library card number followed by a four digit pin number issued by the Library System.

New features include easier browsing and searching, book suggestions, and a history of books and other material checked out over time. Users will also be able to create customized lists of books they want to read, movies they wish to see, or CDs by their favorite recording artists.

“This is the biggest catalog change since the retirement of the old card catalog system,” said Mary Garm, Library System administrator.

With the introduction of the new catalog, the Library System has made changes to its renewal policy. After March 26, patrons will be allowed to renew books, audiobooks and compact discs for up to four additional two week periods.

Videos and DVDs, which can be borrowed for one week, will be eligible for two additional one-week renewals.

The only inconvenience related to the changeover from the old catalog to the new one will be the shutdown of catalog availability from Monday, March 23 to Wednesday, March 25. On those days, library staff will be available in person, online, and by phone to assist with searching needs.