Image courtesy of the Milton Public Library
The Milton Public Library (MPL) says their online services will experience a down period as they upgrade to a new system.
The new library system will be officially launched on Thursday, February 6th. It’s designed to enhance the library experience for all patrons, offering exciting new features and tools to make borrowing, searching, and managing accounts more convenient and engaging than ever before.
The upgraded system introduces innovative features to transform how patrons interact with the library. Patrons can opt-in to receive text notifications to stay informed about holds, due dates, and other updates. A bookmarking feature allows users to save and revisit their favorite catalogue searches effortlessly. Additionally, the new system provides an enhanced reading history that is searchable and sortable, complete with cover images, authors, and check-out dates.
As mentioned, to prepare for this transition, some services will be temporarily paused starting Monday, January 27th. The pause should run until Wednesday, February 5th. During this period, patrons can still borrow items by visiting the Customer Service Desk at any branch. Public computers, laptops, room bookings, and printing services will remain available, ensuring minimal disruption to essential services. Access to all e-Resources from within the library and outside will also remain available. However, placing holds and, use of self-checkout machines will not be possible during the upgrade period.
Patrons can register for new cards with staff assistance by visiting any MPL branch. Online registration for new patrons will continue to be available. Additionally, auto-renewal of existing cards will occur for patrons with card expirations between November 1st, 2024, and February 9th, 2025, extending their validity until May 6th, 2025.
To further accommodate patrons, all items due between January 22nd and February 5th will have their due dates extended to February 10th, and no late fees will be charged between February 6th and February 14th.
Milton Public Library encourages patrons to plan ahead by placing holds on their favorite materials before January 26th, and to save their reading history manually prior to the start of the transition. These small steps will ensure a smoother experience during the upgrade.
As part of this upgrade, MPL will also launch a brand-new mobile app on February 6th. This app provides quick and easy access to library accounts, catalogs, and personalized recommendations, making it easier than ever to stay connected to the library’s offerings. The current app will continue to be available; however, the “My Account” feature will not be updated with the current information between January 27th and February 5th. Additionally, self-checkout with the mobile app will also not be available during this period.
Sarah Douglas-Murray, CEO and Chief Librarian of Milton Public Library, shared her enthusiasm for the project:
“We are excited to bring this improved system to our community. These new features will transform the way patrons interact with the library, making it easier, faster, and more engaging. While there may be some temporary challenges during the transition, we are confident that the improved experience will be worth it. We appreciate our patrons’ patience and support as we prepare for this exciting launch.”
For all the details, as well as FAQs about the new system, click here or follow the MPL on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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