New network, software expand Du Quoin-area access to libraries

Over the next few weeks, Du Quoin Public Library, Pinckneyville Library and the Rick Warren Memorial Library in Elkville will be undergoing some significant changes.

On July 1, 2012, the four automated library consortia in Illinois-- Heartland Library System, elCat, GateNet, LINC, and SilNet--merged to form SHARE (Sharing Heartland's Available Resources Equally).

SHARE encompasses 427 libraries throughout the southern half of Illinois.

On April 9, 2013, SHARE will go live with a new software program, known as Polaris. Each of the former library consortia will change from having over 2 million items in each of their online catalogs to 9.5 million, and from more than 250,000 patrons each to nearly 1,600,000 total. Several library experts agree, SHARE is the largest library consortium in the country, and your local libraries are members!

What does this mean to you?

First, you will need to be patient with your library's staff, as they learn how to use the new software.

Second, there will be a new online patron access catalog, where you can search for items you're interested in, place holds, pay fines, and so on. The new online catalog will be available beginning April 9. Your library staff will be able to help you find it and learn how to use it.

Third, all of the member libraries will be using an offline version of Polaris from April 1 through 8. During that time, you will be able to return books to your library, and check books out from your library. You will not, however, be able to place holds, either at the library or on the online catalog. Arrangements are being made to coordinate due dates and fines so that nothing will be due during the period of offline circulation.

Finally, since the data on holds will not transfer to the new system, the Du Quoin Public Library will not be placing holds beginning Monday, Feb. 18 to assist in the migration. Neither patrons nor library staff will be able to place holds or request items until April 9. The library system will continue to fill holds, however, as long as possible, though all holds not filled by March 22 will be cancelled. If there are items you have not received that you would still like to get, your library staff can assist you in making a list of those items so that they can be requested again.

The Du Quoin library is looking forward to these changes, and thanks you for your patience!