ST. PAUL, Minn. & LIVERPOOL, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Browsing and checking out eBooks is about to get a lot easier for
patrons of libraries using the Polaris Integrated Library System and the 3M
Cloud Library eBook Lending Service. 3M Library Systems and Polaris
Library Systems announce that the integration of these two services is
now live at Baltimore County Public Library.
With this partnership, browsing and checking out eBooks is simpler than
ever, as patrons at participating libraries can browse both physical and
digital collections in just one catalog. This integrated service allows
patrons to discover, check out and place holds on eBooks without ever
leaving the Polaris library catalog. eBook hold notifications will come
directly from the catalog, using the notification preferences the
library patrons have already selected. Patrons will be able to see their
eBook account information in the same view they see all of the physical
items, and can even remove a hold right from the library catalog.
Because the 3M Cloud Library is truly integrated in Polaris, librarians
are able to automatically receive cataloging records in real time as
titles are purchased at 3M, without manually having to import MARC
files. All circulation reports will reflect the digital circulation,
which provides librarians with a more complete picture of circulation at
the library.
Baltimore County Public Library is reviewing the system live for clarity
and ease of use with both patrons and staff.
“We are trying hard to offer eBooks to our customers in a much more
user-friendly way, and this system allows us to do that,” said Jo
Pinder, assistant director of support services, Baltimore County Public
Library. “Our service to the public is enhanced with this integration of
two products that we love.”
The 3M Cloud Library’s integration with Polaris highlights its synergy
with the ReadersFirst
initiative, a movement to improve eBook access and services for
public library users. Through this movement, libraries have asked
e-content providers to offer products that allow users to search and
browse both the physical and digital collections of a library within a
single, comprehensive catalog. Additionally, the initiative is seeking
solutions that allow users to place holds, check-out items, view
availability, manage fines and receive communications without having to
visit separate websites. Both of these criteria are satisfied by the 3M
Cloud Library’s Application Programming Interface (API) suite, which has
the ability to integrate with any ILS.
“Librarians want to offer their communities convenient, easy access to
all of their resources, including eBooks. Unfortunately, until now,
their hands have truly been tied,” said Steven Nielsen, vice president
of product management for Polaris. “Many other ILS vendors say that they
have a fully integrated eBook system for libraries, but unlike the
others, this one is live and working at a real library, thanks to the
hard work of 3M, Polaris and Baltimore County Public Library staff.
Collaboratively, we listened, felt their pain and sense of urgency, and
worked quickly to develop a working solution that fulfills the needs of
patrons and librarians.”
“The 3M Cloud Library continues to demonstrate its responsiveness to
libraries, its broad and growing catalog, and its outstanding
technology,” said Tom Mercer, 3M digital library marketing manager.
“With the launch of ILS integration, it’s time for more libraries to
take the leap to the 3M Cloud Library.”
For more information about the 3M Cloud Library eLending system, visit 3M.com/Cloud.
About 3M Library Systems
3M
Library Systems is committed to helping libraries thrive by providing
cutting edge technologies including RFID, automated materials handling
(AMH), self check and security solutions, as well as our latest
innovation 3M Cloud Library, the fastest growing eBook Lending Service.
Finding the technology solution that is right for each unique library,
3M’s promise is to deliver a long term partnership that is built to
exceed expectations. Follow us on Twitter @3MLibrary or visit www.3M.com/us/library.
About 3M
3M captures the spark
of new ideas and transforms them into thousands of ingenious products.
Our culture of creative collaboration inspires a never-ending stream of
powerful technologies that make life better. 3M is the innovation
company that never stops inventing. With $30 billion in sales, 3M
employs 84,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65
countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com
or follow @3MNews on Twitter.
3M is a trademark of 3M Company.
About Polaris Library Systems
Polaris
Library Systems earns the highest customer satisfaction ratings by
focusing on one goal: helping librarians better serve their communities.
A true technology partner, Polaris uses a deep understanding of
libraries and patrons to thoughtfully design products and services that
meet today’s most challenging needs. Over 2,000 public, private and
academic libraries count on Polaris automation platforms to maximize
time and resources, reduce costs, boost productivity and improve patron
satisfaction every day. Polaris is dedicated to providing unique,
reliable solutions that empower libraries to build better patron
relationships and a productive, bright future. Visit www.polarislibrary.com
for more information.
