Library users in Cumbria are set to benefit from a new cutting edge IT system which will provide many features currently only available on major on-line book selling sites.
The Library Service's current software system dates back to the mid 1980's and is no longer capable of providing Library Service staff and library goers with the information and tools they need to better manage and access the 1.4 million books, DVDs, CDs and videos currently available to borrow in the county.
In December this year, a new IT system supplied by the Sirsidynix will be switched on in all the county's 53 libraries. Taking its lead from internet retail giants like Amazon.co.uk, the new system will provide users with individually tailored reading recommendations based on the type of books they most like to borrow.
Library users will also be able to find details of all the titles in stock, see which libraries hold copies and whether the copies are available or on loan. People will also be able to access their own personal details such as previous loans, reservations or charges, with a library card and a special PIN number.
One feature of a the new system will enable borrowers to quickly browse books categorised according to major events in a person's life, from getting married to learning to drive.
For younger borrowers, the new system will include a special on-line children's library where young people will be able to browse books on a range of topics including science, sports, animals and a host of other subjects.
Library users will be able to access the new system from their home computer or via one of the special terminals already available in every library. The system will also notify library goers when items are due for renewal and allow them to do this online.
Councillor Roger Bingham, cabinet member responsible for Cumbria's Library Services, said: "The new system will resemble the some of the best commercial bookselling websites and will provide a much better service for library users.
"The existing system is more than a decade old and is no longer up to the job of managing and providing easy on-line access to the Library Service's vast array of stock.
"In addition to the improvements which library users will see when they use this new system, Library Service staff will also find it much simpler to use when it comes to getting the best stock and other management functions."
The new system is due to go live across Cumbrian in early December 2007 with staff training taking place over the next few months.
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Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606337