AUGUSTA — Maine Infonet and the Maine State Library have launched Dirigo Libraries, a collaborative consortium that unites four libraries across the state. Member libraries include the Maine State Library, Maine Law and Legislative Reference Library, Bangor Public Library and Portland Public Library.

With this initiative, patrons of these member libraries can expect faster, easier access to a vast shared collection of resources.

“We are excited to bring this level of collaboration and access to patrons of these libraries,” said James Jackson Sanborn, executive director of Maine Infonet, according to a news release from the Maine State Library. “Dirigo Libraries represents a leap forward in ensuring that member library users have access to the materials they need, when they need them.”

The launch marks the culmination of months of planning, preparation and system-wide upgrades.

Recognizing the limitations of the current technological platform, the member libraries identified the need for a significant upgrade. Tackling an overhaul of this scale individually would be challenging, but through collaboration, the libraries are able to modernize their systems collectively. After extensive review, leadership from the member libraries selected the Polaris Integrated Library System and the Vega Discovery tool, partnering with Clarivate to implement this cutting-edge technology. These tools will enhance the library experience by providing a user-friendly catalog and streamlining access to materials statewide.

The Dirigo Libraries have undertaken significant work to prepare for this launch, including migrating millions of records, such as cardholder data, library catalog records and web resources to the new system. This effort ensures a seamless transition and sets the stage for enhanced resource sharing across all member libraries.

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The impact of this upgrade and consortium will vary among the libraries, but patrons should enjoy several key benefits:

• Increased purchasing power — member libraries will save significantly on ILS expenses, enabling them to reinvest those funds into purchasing additional materials.

• Unified access — library users can search for and request materials from any of the member libraries directly through the shared catalog.

• Faster fulfillment — hold requests will pull from the collections of all four libraries, reducing wait times and improving access.

• Convenient returns — borrowed items can be returned to the patron’s closest member library, saving time and effort.

The final phase of the transition is set to begin Monday, Feb. 24, and last for approximately two weeks, concluding with the full launch of the Dirigo Libraries consortium. During this period, individual member libraries will share updates and provide guidance on any temporary service impacts.

For more information contact Maine State Library at 207-287-5600 or circulation.MSL@maine.gov.

 

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