Swift Search Service At Our Library

Finding books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, online articles, e-books and everything else held in Marlborough’s libraries should be easier from today with the installation of a new library management system that includes the latest search technology.

The new service, Kōtui, went live today after months of preparation, including the transfer of almost 130,000 records into the new system.

It puts us on a par with the biggest metropolitan libraries anywhere in the country, says District Librarian Glenn Webster.

“Our customers now have more information at their fingertips. Rather than accessing our catalogue and electronic content separately, at the push of a button they can now search across most of what we purchase and license.”

“This improved searchability will be of particular help to people who need the most up-to-date research or findings on a topic or issue. A single search will identify not only the books on our shelves but also the latest information contained in the online journals to which we subscribe.”

Library members can also access this information remotely using their PC, laptop or cell phone.

Kōtui is the result of collaboration between a group of public libraries, the Association of Public Library Managers, Local Government New Zealand and the National Library. This collaboration identified the need for an affordable, efficient collection management and access service with excellent functionality.

“By operating collectively at a national level, we are able to provide our local community with the same level of service usually reserved for the metropolitan libraries,” says Glenn.
Marlborough is the first of 15 public libraries that will implement Kōtui over the next three years.

• More information is available at: www.kotui.org.nz