BiblioTech demonstrates the extraordinary impact libraries can have on the community and we are honored to provide the platform they need to continue growing as an innovator in the library industry.
Syracuse, NY (PRWEB) September 30, 2013
As the demand for e-content increases, Polaris provides a platform for libraries to remain on the cutting-edge of technology and innovation, becoming the first integrated library system (ILS) vendor of an all-digital public library.
Polaris Library Systems, a trusted provider of technology solutions for academic, private and public libraries, has partnered with BiblioTech, the nation’s first library to circulate e-content exclusively; they shelve no physical books.
Located in a low-income area of San Antonio, Texas, where approximately 75% of the population lacks Internet access, BiblioTech made the strategic decision to invest solely in digital materials. The digital library allows patrons to borrow e-readers and tablets to access the collection of approximately 10,000 current titles, all of which derive from the 3M Cloud Library. The 4,989 square-foot building encompasses 100 e-readers available for circulation, 50 e-readers for children, 50 computer stations, 25 laptops and 25 tablets on site, providing resources to the community where they weren’t before.
"When BiblioTech and 3M approached our company with the concept of an all-digital public library, we were inspired by their passion, innovation, and strategic plan," said Bill Schickling, president and CEO, Polaris Library Systems. "BiblioTech demonstrates the extraordinary impact libraries can have on the community and we are honored to provide the platform they need to continue growing as an innovator in the library industry."
Polaris has worked in collaboration with 3M to provide a seamless user experience; enhancing how the community interacts with the library. BiblioTech held their grand opening on September 14th, 2013, with approximately 1,100 community members in attendance and 6,000 applying for library privileges. Since then, between 200 and 400 patrons have visited the library every day.
"Polaris is the ILS of BiblioTech, the first all-digital public library in the nation," said Ashley Eklof, head librarian, BiblioTech. "Though this is a new library model, Polaris has been flexible in working with us to meet the changing needs of our patrons. They are also fully integrated with our eBook aggregator, 3M Cloud Library, allowing for a more patron friendly check-out process."
With an integrated library system conducive to innovation, progressive libraries can easily carry out their vision, as BiblioTech has done. For more information on how libraries can transform their role in the community and become the primary resource for information and modern technology, visit polarislibrary.com.
About Polaris Library Systems
Polaris Library Systems is a leading library automation software company, earning the highest customer satisfaction ratings by focusing on one goal: helping librarians serve their communities. Established in 2003, Polaris Library Systems provides academic, private and public libraries with an integrated library system that boosts productivity, improves patron satisfaction and transforms how libraries connect, communicate and collaborate with their communities in the modern world. For more information, visit http://www.polarislibrary.com.
Contact:
Emily Bowe, PR Specialist
Polaris Library Systems
315-634-4519
emily.bowe(at)polarislibrary(dot)com