library catalog noun. an enumeration of all the resources of a library; a register of all bibliographic items found in a library; a log or register of all the materials owned by a particular library.

Our library catalog, the register of all items in our library,  is undergoing a major (major!) change -- a system upgrade that will offer many service enhancements, including better account information, faster and more reliable performance, and advanced member and staff tools. The last time we undertook this major a change to our system was when we updated from the old card catalog system (shown below, left)  about 20 years ago. At that time, we replaced the card catalog with the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC). The photos below (center and right), taken during our conversion to the OPAC, convey only a hint of the massive effort and energy that an event of this magnitude requires. During the last conversion, the enormity of this task was highly visible and unfortunately, very disruptive to life in the Library. This time, all of the migration of records will take place behind the scenes. Though not visible in the physical space of our building, the task is still huge and unfortunately, some disruptions cannot be avoided. Some of our regular services will experience interruptions and limitations and there will be periodic reductions in system availability during the transition.

As you know, the current system upgrade has already impacted the ability to place holds. Online holds cannot be accepted during this time; the hold option has been disabled. (Items currently on hold will not be affected.)

Also note, some new items may not be appearing in the OPAC, so it may look as if we don't have the item that you are searching for. (Of course, we have Eat Pray Love on DVD on order! In fact, the copies have already been delivered and they will be on our shelves on the release date on Tuesday, 11/23.) So, please check with us. Come in or call. Email us at askus@darienlibrary.org, IM us on AIM & Y!M at deweydarien, or text us. We will post notices on our catalog page alerting you about  books and DVDs that are on order and the dates that they are expected.

We will be going live with the new system on Wednesday, December 8.

From December 1 - December 7, there will be limited services, but we will remain open. Here's what you need to know.

Members:

• will need to have their library cards to check out items

• will still be unable to place holds

• will be unable to check account status or outstanding fines

• will be unable to access reference databases from home

Please note:

An off-line version of the Library catalog will be available for searching.

The Welcome Desk, Information Desk, and Help Desk will be fully staffed and operating.

Our public computers will still be available and our databases will be able to be accessed from within the Library.

We will continue to keep you updated during this time of change at Darien Library. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.