"My Account" feature, quick searches, new links among the changes.
By: Rachel Silverman
As part of an ongoing Web site makeover campaign, the Princeton Public Library is scheduled to launch a revamped online catalog today.
Changes to the catalog include, among other things, enhanced quick searches, added links, new book listings and a "bookbag" shopping cart.
In a recent news release, Library Access Services Manager Janice Painter praised the redesign efforts.
"The catalog’s new appearance will be the most obvious change, but several other enhancements add more powerful features for customers," she said.
"We think the public will be very happy with these changes, and we invite their feedback," Ms. Painter added.
The new catalog will feature a "My Account" heading, which will act as a personal hub for each library patron. From here, patrons will be able to view checked-out items, fines, saved searches and book due dates. In addition, those who add their e-mail address to the "My Account" section will be able to receive notices and updates via e-mail.
Starting today, catalog browsers will also notice a new advanced search option, complete with genre, media, call number and ISBN search capabilities.
A "Bookletters" area will showcase author profiles, suggested readings, book reviews and bestseller lists. A "Bookbag" component will act as an online storage bin, through which patrons can reserve, e-mail or save titles for later use.
Other enhancements include book jacket images, first chapter snippets, plot synopses and book reviews under a "More Information" category.
In addition, the catalog will house an "Ask a Question" segment, which will allow patrons to interact with reference and adult services librarians, as well as basic "Reserve It," "Is it Available?" and "New and Recommended" buttons.
The library catalog, which was initially launched in 1999, is being reconfigured as part of a continuing Web site overhaul project.
"Practically everything was done from scratch," Ms. Painter said in a phone interview Monday, citing an improved events calendar and new teen page as examples.
"We wanted to give (the Web pages) more contemporary looks and informative content," Ms. Painter explained. "We will continue to do so as new features are released," she said.
An upcoming Databytes class on Thursday, June 23 will walk attending patrons through the catalog’s new format and features, Ms. Painter added.