A summary of our new features

January was a busy month for us at LibraryWorld full of new feature releases, the roll out of a brand new look for LibraryWorld, and a lot of listening to your feedback. Here is a summary of the new features that have been implemented in the past month:


1. LibraryWorld's new look:
Everyone should be seeing these changes as we switched over on Feb 1.  This upgrade features a new user interface, improved navigation and increased social media connections.


2. Google Book Previews:
Google Book Previews provide a quick way to view a summary and often contents of a book. You can turn this feature on for the catalog application in the Settings General page. You can also turn this feature on for OPAC users in the Settings OPAC page.


3. Lost and Found feature:
Perhaps the most eagerly awaited addition, the 'lost' command changes the status of a holding to 'LOST', creates a log entry for tracking the number of lost holdings over time and (if the holding was checked out) displays an owed transaction window to charge the patron the price of the holding. You are given the options to charge, mark as paid, or forgive.


4. The LibraryWorld Android App:
Now searching your library is easier than ever! The LibraryWorld search App is now available for your Android mobile phone. Like the iPhone and iPad apps, the LibraryWorld app for Android is offered free of charge to you and your patrons. Users can now search their home library, view book jackets, and check status of circulation items.

5. Search by record type:
Now users can search and browse their collection-specific record types independent from individual record titles. There are two main ways to access this search feature. Within the catalog app, you can roll over the 'Show' button to access a drop down menu of record types for a quick view of all library records associated with the selected record type. You can perform this same search function through the 'Catalog Advanced Search'.

LibraryWorld's Google Book Preview feature

As most of you know by now, last week we officially announced LibraryWorld's new look. While we are permanently making the switch effective February 1st, we wanted to give you a little time to interact with the new look and try out some of the new features. If you still haven't checked it out, you can view the new look here.

The first element that you will notice is the visual layout of your library's main page. Sometimes, keeping things simple takes a lot of time to get right. We made an extra effort to increase the efficiency with which you can navigate between the key applications that LibraryWorld offers. Still new to LibraryWorld and feel like you need more information about the applications we offer? We have included a 'more info' link to most application pages next to the page title that takes you to a detailed description of how each application can function for you and your patrons.

Our Google Preview function within your OPAC is something we are truly excited about, as it provides added value to your patrons’ search experience and highlights the strength of the Internet as a tool for your library patrons. Google Book Previews provide a quick way to view a summary and often contents of a book. We have provided a link to the service if your catalog record contains an ISBN number. You can turn this feature on for the catalog application in the Settings General page. You can also turn this feature on for OPAC users in the Settings OPAC page.

Here is an example of what your patrons will see when you have this feature enabled:

OPAC screenshot of MARC21 record

When patrons click on the 'Google Preview' link, they will be directed here

Have fun getting familiar with these new changes to LibraryWorld, and know that there are many more exciting announcements to come. In fact, we are working hard to put the finishing touches on a new feature that many of you have asked for. Keep your eyes peeled to this blog and our Facebook page for that announcement sometime next week.

LibraryWorld: Defining the Marketplace

When Norman Kline founded LibraryWorld in 1986, the mission was to build advanced technology tools to automate library collections.  After years of success with application software, Norman saw a significant need for a low cost solution for libraries of all sizes that could be accessed from any location on the Web. LibraryWorld lived up to its mission and truly embodied the spirit of Silicon Valley innovation by moving a traditionally static and very expensive software to the Cloud.

Looking to innovate ahead of the curve, LibraryWorld's move disrupted the marketplace and established cloud based library automation as a new standard. LibraryWorld is now set to launch a third version of its online software which will again serve to revolutionize the industry. Version 3.0 will enhance existing library features and  leverage Web resources like never before.