PRESS RELEASES
BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY UPDATES AUTOMATION SYSTEM
~ “Pardon Our Digital Dust” as Upgrade Affects Service Temporarily~
October 7, 2004 - Buffalo, NY - The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library (B&ECPL) is updating its automation system, which encompasses both circulation services and its online catalog. The anticipated “go-live” date is Thursday, November 4th. While completing the transition, the public will experience some temporary disruptions. Beginning Thursday, October 21st, the Library System will be unable to issue or replace borrower cards. Effective Thursday, October 28th, patrons will not be able to place requests for materials. Both services are expected to resume November 4th.
“It has been more than 20 years since we installed our first automated system,” said B&ECPL Director Michael C. Mahaney. “The current software company was acquired by another firm, and the product is no longer being maintained or enhanced. To accomplish our goal of providing the best automated services possible to the people of Erie County, it was necessary to migrate our integrated library system to the new vendor's software.”
Patrons will notice a new and improved online catalog following the automation upgrade. Borrowers will have access to book summaries, reviews, cover art and sample chapters.
“These enhancements will offer the community more comprehensive and convenient service,” added Mahaney.
The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library System, comprised of the Central Library, 15 city branches, 36 contract library facilities and mobile and outreach services, is dedicated to connecting Erie County's diverse communities with library resources that enrich, enlighten and entertain.