The computer interface used to find and reserve books, videos, CDs and other items at Kaua’i’s public libraries is going to become more user-friendly next month. The Hawaii State Public Library System’s new automation system, which is named Horizon Sunrise,
The computer interface used to find and reserve books, videos, CDs and other items at Kaua’i’s public libraries is going to become more user-friendly next month.
The Hawaii State Public Library System’s new automation system, which is named Horizon Sunrise, is set to go online in mid-January.
In preparation for the upcoming switchover, public libraries are now stamping borrowed books, CDs, videos, DVDs and other materials with a due date of Jan. 31, 2003.
The Horizon Sunrise is a product of epixtech Inc. and will feature a graphics-enriched interface compared to the existing text-based interface now in use at public libraries in Hawai’i.
Library users searching for materials within the libraries, and at home or at work, will now be able to do searches through a browser-based interfaced hosted on the World Wide Web. Currently a tele-text type of Internet connection using the Telnet protocol is used. The Telnet interface was commonly used by Internet users prior to the mid-1990s when software browser like Mosaic, Netscape Explorer and Microsoft’s Internet Explorer became common.
Through the Horizon Sunrise system access to HSPLS’ extensive collections of book titles and other library materials will be made available via an internet-based Public Access Catalog (iPAC), according to an online overview posted on the HSPLS’s Web site.
Up-to-date new Public Access Catalog stations and computers are presently being installed in libraries on Kaua’i.
A transition to the new system is planned between Friday, Jan. 10 and Wednesday, Jan. 15.
First-time library card applicants are encouraged to get their card by Dec. 29 at their local library. During the transition period libraries will remain open with their regular hours, and staff will be available to assist patrons. Temporary library cards will be issued to new applicants beginning Dec. 30.
The following services will not be available during the transition period: catalog searches, renewals made in person, or by telephone, dial-in or Internet access, reserves placed online.
In addition, library users will not be able to make payments for fines, lost or damaged materials, or any other charges that exist on their record at the time of the conversion.
