The Youth Team at Mesa Public Library works on the transition to the new cataloh system. Photo Courtesy LAC
Staff prepare for the transition to the new catalog system. Photo Courtesy LAC
COUNTY NEWS RELEASE
Los Alamos Public Library is pleased to announce a major upgrade to its catalog system, offering patrons a more intuitive and user‑friendly experience. Beginning October 1, library users will be able to search for and access books, audiobooks, DVDs, and downloadable titles through a completely redesigned interface.
This upgrade follows a competitive RFP process initiated last year to replace the library’s existing software. The selection team chose Koha and the Aspen Discovery Layer, both open‑source platforms supported and hosted by ByWater LLC. These tools were selected for their flexibility, robust features, and commitment to enhancing the patron experience.
“Our hope is that the new catalog will greatly improve how patrons discover materials to check out from the library,” said Library Manager Gwen Kalavaza. “I’m excited about the expanded features that will make it easier and more enjoyable for our community to explore all we offer.”
Key enhancements include:
• More intuitive searching
• Grouped title results
• Reader advisory features, including the ability to rate titles
• Option to link family or household accounts
To ensure a smooth transition, the library will observe the following timeline as it prepares for the switchover:
• September 25 – Catalog enters read‑only mode; account changes and hold placements will be unavailable.
• September 27 – Lockers at MPL will close; all hold items will be moved inside for pickup.
• September 28–29 – Patrons may continue checking out materials but will need to bring their library cards to a service desk.
• September 30 – Soft launch of the new software and catalog. Staff will be cleaning up items and data as well as checking in items so services may be limited. Children’s programs in White Rock are cancelled on Sept 30.
The library appreciates the community’s patience during this transition and looks forward to unveiling a more powerful and user‑friendly catalog on October 1.
For more information, visit the library website.