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  New Library Automation System  
 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why the Library Automation System (LAS) has to be replaced?

A1:
With the advancement of information technology, a number of components of the existing LAS of the Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL), including the core application software and part of the hardware, have become outdated or obsolete. In order to cope with the anticipated growth of the usage of the HKPL in future and to support the development strategy of further expanding library services and utilizing new technology and information technology, the existing LAS has to be replaced.

Q2: When will the new system be implemented?

A2:
The replacement project of the new library system will be implemented in two phases. The first phase, which will focus on the migration of core library services and data such as borrowing and returning services, library catalogue and borrower registration, is expected to be launched at the end of December 2011. The new system will also pilot the latest Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in six public libraries, of which Sha Tin Public Library will introduce a 24-hour RFID book drop service.

The second phase of the project will continue to be implemented in 2012 and the whole project is scheduled for completion in 2013. This phase will mainly focus on the addition of new functions, e.g. workstation booking system, printing management system, virtual reference service, e-resources management system and customer relation management system, etc.

Q3: What new functions are available in the new library catalogue?

A3:
The new library catalogue has a layout design different from the old one. Apart from the standard search functions, the new catalogue provides more search options and additional content such as images of item covers and book ratings, which facilitate the selection of library materials by readers.

Moreover, readers can choose to save selected information or share it with others and enjoy browsing library information at any time and any places.

Readers can login to their accounts for reservation and renewal of library materials. Readers can also register for the email notification service through their account. Registered readers can receive a due date email reminder two days before the due date.

Furthermore, readers can also choose to keep the loan history in their accounts for future reference.

Q4: What are the benefits of the new library catalogue?

A4:
The new library catalogue system will bring the following benefits to readers:

  1. The simple and clear interface will provide a user-friendly search function which is closer to the mode of current online search;
  2. The search function has been greatly enhanced and supports various searching conditions;
  3. The search result can show images of item covers;
  4. Some records can also provide the table of contents and summary of books and other title information;
  5. Readers can keep a personal favourite or frequently-used book list;
  6. Readers can share the catalogue content on the social network;
  7. Readers can share their ratings on individual books with other readers;
  8. Readers can choose to save their loan history for future reference; and
  9. Readers will be able to receive an email notification from the system before the due date.

Q5: How to get access to the new library catalogue?

A5:

Readers can access to the new library catalogue through the HKPL homepage or the following URLs.

Q6: What are the system requirements for using the new library catalogue?

A6:
To access to the new library catalogue, readers only need a computer with Internet access and a browser of IE8/Firefox 4 or above.

Q7: How will the HKPL assist readers to accustom to and use the new system?

A7:
The HKPL has been providing regular user education programmes for readers on the use of the new system and electronic resources. After the new system is implemented, more such user education programmes will be provided. Relevant leaflets or booklets about the use of the new system will also be provided. In fact, readers will learn the operation and functions of the new system easily through the various help messages available in the system interface.

Moreover, detailed help messages providing explanations and instructions for the major functions are available in the new catalogue system. Readers can click the "?" icon on the top right hand corner of the page to obtain the help messages. They can also learn how to renew or reserve library materials though the HKPL homepage.

Q8: Besides the new library catalogue, what other functions are available in the new library system?

A8:
Besides the improvements on the workflow and efficiency of current library operation brought by the new system, a pilot scheme for the application of the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology will also be launched with the new system in six selected libraries, including two major libraries (Sha Tin and City Hall), two district libraries (Lockhart Road and Lai Chi Kok) and two small libraries (Shun Lee Estate and Tin Shui Wai North). The pilot scheme will cover the application of RFID enabled self-charging terminals, self-returning stations and book sorter systems.

Q9: What is the reason for launching the pilot scheme in six selected libraries?

A9:
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a developing technology. It would be too risky if the RFID technology is introduced in a “revolutionary way” at one go because a substantial investment is required. If there is any error in the design, it would make a direct impact on the public service.

The LCSD has therefore selected six branch libraries for the pilot scheme. It is more easy to control under such scale and the overall risk would be greatly reduced. The pilot run may test different operation plans as well as collecting public opinions on the application of new technologies and new service modes, ensuring the operation plans adopted in future will suit public needs.

Q10: What are the benefits of the application of the RFID technology?

A10:
We expect that the application of the RFID technology will reduce the time needed for check-in and check-out processes. It will help to further promote self-help services and enhance readers’ satisfaction. It will also help to streamline library workflow, thus increasing the efficiency of the sorting, shelving and daily management of library items. Moreover, it may even support further research and development of more diversified remote self-help services.

Q11: What are the special features of the libraries launching the REID pilot scheme?

A11:
The libraries participating in the pilot scheme have the following features:

  1. The new technology will reduce the time needed for check-in and check-out processes. It will help to further promote self-help services and enhance readers’ satisfaction;
  2. Self-returning and book sorting systems will be introduced under the pilot scheme to increase the efficiency in processing returned books;
  3. Sha Tin Public Library will conduct a pilot test on a 24-hour RFID book drop service, allowing readers to return loan materials at any time. 

Q12: When will the RFID technology be fully launched?

A12:
The LCSD will closely monitor the public feedback and acceptance of the new system under the RFID technology pilot scheme. Based on the experience gained, we will draw up long- term plans for the full launch of the RFID technology in the HKPL if the pilot scheme proves that the technology is successful and cost effective and will seek funding approval from the Legislative Council for implementing the plans. However, no specific timetable has been drawn up yet.







 
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Last Revision Date : 06 January 2012