(PIKES PEAK REGION, Colo.) — The Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) announced that starting at the end of November, it will be upgrading to a new operating system that is intended to improve patron experience.

This upgrade is the first of its kind in 24 years, updating the Integrated Library System (ILS), which allows patrons to check out books, reserve and renew items, and manage their library experience.

The new system, called Polaris, will offer new features, such as reading histories, saved searches, auto-complete search bars, suggested reads, and the ability to see all material formats grouped together when using the online catalog. Polaris will also include clickable author biographies and a more streamlined online catalog.

“We wanted to make sure we found an effective system that would benefit patrons and staff,” said Jenny Pierce, director of collection management.  “We are excited about this change and think patrons will be too.” 

The Library will start switching to the new system at the close of business on Saturday, Nov. 29, and will complete the process by Tuesday, Dec. 9.

During this time, there will be minor disruptions to service, and staff will not be able to check in books, so due dates for items will be extended. Books and materials can still be returned, and the library will hold the items until they can be processed.

Cardholders will not be able to place holds, access the online catalog, or use the PPLD app, but they may still check out books and Culture Passes, use eLibrary services and computers, reserve rooms, and use makerspaces and studios.

The PPLD libraries will be closed on Dec. 10 and 11 to allow staff to test the upgrades and prepare to help cardholders navigate the system.

“Our goal is to disrupt services as little as possible,” said Colleen Medling, ILS administrator. “This is a major undertaking, and we’re doing it with our patrons in mind.”