Blacksburg, Virginia, U.S.A.—VTLS Inc. announces that it has successfully migrated the Chesapeake (Va.) Public Library from the INLEX automation system to the VTLS integrated library system. Chesapeake's new system is powered by a Hewlett-Packard 3000 Series 957 computer, which supports 150 terminals in the main library and in five branch libraries, each with dial-in service.
The VTLS migration was straightforward and simple. Chesapeake PL did not have to invest in any additional equipment, nor did it have to relabel its collection or issue new library cards since the library can still use its INLEX barcodes for books and patrons.
Dr. Vinod Chachra, president of VTLS Inc. said, "VTLS made software development efforts to provide a smooth and efficient path to convert INLEX data to VTLS format. We hope other INLEX users will take advantage of this opportunity."
Chesapeake PL has implemented the following subsystems of the basic VTLS software package: online public access catalog, keyword and Boolean searching, circulation control, cataloging, authority control, serials control, status monitoring, reporting and collection management, and parameters and library profiling. In addition, the library has opted for the VTLS Acquisitions and Fund Accounting System.
Chesapeake PL houses 170,790 titles and 427,429 volumes, serves a population of 177,000, and has an annual circulation of 1.4 million.
The 20-year-old, 19,000-square-foot Chesapeake Central Library underwent major renovation and expansion in 1989. When the new library was dedicated in January 1993, it boasted 68,000 square feet, an arresting three-story vestibule, and a light-filled children's library and activity room that reflect the library's emphasis on children's services. Other aspects of the library include a 200-seat meeting room, study and conference rooms, literacy and tutoring rooms, a public law library, and a local history room.
