New Holds Feature Allows Users to Reserve Checked-Out Content
Beginning this week, your users will have the option to reserve OCLC NetLibrary content that has already been checked out by another user. New holds functionality, scheduled for release on Wednesday, January 27, will be automatically integrated into NetLibrary’s Web-based user interface and the Media Center.
Designed to help libraries manage the growing demand for eAudiobook and eBook titles, the new holds feature will enable users to:
- Place up to three hold requests for titles that are already checked out
- View their place in line, or cancel hold at any time
- Receive e-mail notification once the title becomes available.
When the holds feature is initially released, functionality will be activated for eAudiobook content only. To activate holds for eBooks, you will need to e-mail OCLC’s Customer Service Department at support@oclc.org. OCLC NetLibrary also plans future enhancements that will allow you and your staff to manage configuration of holds functionality and generate related access reports through the Library Resource Center. Be sure to watch for upcoming announcements.
Please note: During this upgrade, the NetLibrary Web site will be offline from 7:00-8:00 am EST on Wednesday, January 27.
OCLC has released the new NetLibrary Media Center, a full-featured desktop application that allows library patrons to easily search, manage, transfer and listen to eAudiobooks from their local library. The free software application allows users to connect to NetLibrary, and then download and begin listening to eAudiobooks with just one click.
The Media Center combines familiar user functions available from NetLibrary’s Web-based platform to browse, search and check out materials, and adds enhanced features and functionality—such as a full-feature audio player; seamless download to a portable listening device; and other features designed to improve the patron’s experience with NetLibrary eAudiobooks.
In order to provide users with access to the Media Center, libraries will need to complete a Media Center Activation Request and return to NetLibrary. Activation requests are available at:
http://www.oclc.org/audiobooks/media_center/Media_Center_Activation_Request.pdf
OCLC will accept activation request forms through December 31, 2008. As of December 19th, 2008, librarians will be able to turn the NetLibrary Media Center on themselves through the Library Resource Center (LRC). Instructions on how librarians can activate the NetLibrary Media Center through the LRC will be available in the near future.
Additional resources, including an online demo, Media Center brochure and updated eAudiobooks User Guide can be accessed below from the Media Center main page at http://www.oclc.org/audiobooks/media_center/default.htm.
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