Date: 16 July 2006 19:18


NEW ONLINE INFORMATION SYSTEM BOOSTS CAMBRIDGESHIRE LIBRARY SERVICES

The County Council is introducing a new online information system which will 
improve and expand Library services to the public in Cambridgeshire.

From July 11 the new system, called Unicorn, will replace the existing data 
management system which has been used to manage customer and stock records 
since 1988.

The improved system will provide a number of benefits for Library users and 
staff, including:
* Quicker, easier and more detailed search facilities
* Improved and more modern ways of handling library functions
* Increased flexibility and speed which will also free up frontline staff 
who will have more time to meet the needs of Library users.

The new web-based system will have a different look but will still link from 
the County Council's Library website in the same way, enabling people to 
access Library services and stock not only within libraries but also from 
home and work outside library opening times.

Customers will still be able to use their existing tickets and PIN numbers 
to request and renew books, CDs, DVDs and videos online. In addition, in the 
future the new system will enable customers to request books that we don't 
have in stock in Cambridgeshire, and even make online recommendations for 
titles to be made available.

To allow the new system to be installed, all libraries and library access 
points will be closed on Sunday, July 9th and Monday, July 10, reopening on 
Tuesday, July 11th.  Additionally the online catalogue will not be available 
from 5pm on Saturday, June 9th. It will back online at 9.00 am on July 11.

The new system is costing around £530,000 which covers all the software, 
hardware and implementation costs, including the replacement of a number of 
out-dated PCs and computer terminals.

County Council Cabinet Member for Environment & Community Services, 
Councillor John Reynolds, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the 
Library service to further modernise its provision and first class service 
to our residents. This new improved information management system again 
demonstrates the Council's continued commitment to our customers, expanded 
services, and the continuation of the Library investment plan"

John Reynolds