Would you be interested in setting direction, policy, and procedures for the operation of SHARE, on behalf of libraries like yours? If so, SHARE is looking for volunteers for the SHARE Executive Council! We have an immediate opening for a small library representative, as well as openings for a medium library representative, school library representative, and academic library representative, beginning in July.
We’re thrilled to announce a major improvement that will save you time and simplify reporting!
Starting now, Delivery Closure Dates and SHARE Member Closure Dates can both be reported on a
single form. This update means less hassle and more efficiency when managing closures across the
board.
In fiscal year 2024, SHARE worked hard to ensure every member library received the maximum benefit from their membership. This was accomplished by saving members the cost of expensive software subscriptions, increasing item circulation, and providing first-class support and training.
The SHARE Aspen catalog now has an EBSCO databases page with geolocating links and descriptions of all the databases provided by the Illinois State Library. This page was created using the Web Resources feature of the Aspen Web Builder.
System Messages are a helpful tool for all Aspen library admin accounts! Visit the Aspen Discovery Help Center → Customize → System Messages to learn how to create system messages and watch a video tutorial with more in-depth information.
System Messages allow you to create messages that communicate information to library patrons such as closings, internet outages, system updates, policy changes, job opportunities, and more on the Aspen catalog. These can be displayed at the top of the screen and applied to the entire catalog or to specific account pages when patrons are logged in.
Are you ready to get the Aspen Discovery implementation process rolling?
SHARE staff and ByWater Solutions have worked together to create a plan of action, outlined below.
Cohort Model & Timeline
Due to the large number of libraries that have chosen to add Aspen Discovery, we’ll use a ‘cohort model’ for the implementation. Each cohort will consist of 20 – 30 libraries. Our first cohort will begin training in November 2023 through December 2024. Wondering which cohort your library is in?
Cohort 4A: Public Libraries and Academic Libraries A-L - Implementation begins in May, Go Live in August
Cohort 4B: Public Libraries and Academic Libraries M-Z - Implementation begins in July, Go Live in September
Cohort 4C: School Libraries and Special Libraries A-L - Implementation begins in August, Go Live in October
Cohort 4D: School Libraries and Special Libraries M-Z - Implementation begins in September, Go Live in November
Your library will receive a welcome email and continuing project plan information from Lesley Zavediuk.
Did you know that ByWater Solutions provides the best resources for their Aspen Discovery users?
In early December of 2023, our first cohort started training on Aspen. Recordings of those sessions are available for all to view.
Recording of Dec. 5 Meeting Recording of Dec. 13 Meeting
Need marketing materials for Aspen? Find them below!
In the meantime, tons of helpful information is available via the links below. Feel free to share these resources with your front-line staff to build excitement and prepare for patron use!
SHARE has a text alert service in the event of a Polaris outage. Text POLARIS to 84483 to receive alerts from SHARE. You will only receive an alert in the event of a system outage.
You will also receive email from SHARE's Official Business mailing list. You can sign up for all emails and newsletters from IHLS and SHARE here.
The SHARE Mobile Library app is here!
Our automated library consortium now has a mobile app! The SHARE Mobile Library, created with the Solus library app platform, allows your patrons to browse new books, renew your items, search digital content, add and manage multiple accounts, and find your nearest public library, all in the app. Keep an eye on this page for all of the latest SHARE Mobile Library news and resources! LEARN MORE
Bookmarks, door signs, and social media images are now available on our SHARE Mobile Library Marketing Materials page!
For anyone who has not yet tried Leap, or needs a refresher, here's a training session!