July 9, 1999 (Denver)--Phoenix Public Library has converted to the CARL Information Management and Delivery System (IMDS) from their previous Dynix system in its Central Library and 12 branches.
The first phase of the installation includes CARL's graphical client/server Circulation module, and CARLweb, CARL's Web-based interface to the library's OPAC. Phoenix Public Library is implementing a multilingual CARLweb in English and Spanish and is using self-service features such as patron account information and Phone Notification/Phone Circulation (PN/PC). The Library is also using CARLweb's validation software to verify patron access to third-party Web databases.
"We chose CARL primarily for their strong patron services functions," said Toni Garvey, Phoenix City Librarian. "CARLweb gives us bilingual capabilities, which is important for our Spanish speaking population, and it has a strong search interface. CARL's willingness to partner with us in developing products to meet the needs of our community was also important. With CARLweb, for example, we were able to customize the product for specific audiences."
Phoenix Public Library is using CARLweb as their in-house online catalog, and patron response to the interface has been enthusiastic. CARLweb's flexibility allows Phoenix Public Library to offer easy access and advanced versions within the library, a version customized for remote access, and another version for staff use.
"We recently conducted a user satisfaction survey," said Ross McLachlan, Technical Services Administrator, "and the majority of our users are very pleased with our new offering. Our patrons told us that CARLweb is fast, easy, and gives them the information they need. In addition, having CARL staff present to facilitate the initial installation was a real benefit."
"It was a joy to work with the staff of Phoenix Public Library," said Patricia Culkin, CARL President. "We view our clients as partners in development, and that is certainly the case with Phoenix Public. Together we are providing the best information access and management available for the people of Phoenix."
The Phoenix Public Library collection numbers 600,000 titles and 1,800,000 physical items, serves over 600,000 users and circulation over six million items each year. The City of Phoenix and the Library serves a rapidly growing population, and is the seventh largest city in the country. In addition to its core catalog of holdings, Phoenix Public Library offers its users access to multiple electronic and web-based information resources, as well as a full range of community oriented reference services. The Library is a leader in ADA compliance among public libraries and has one of the oldest and most experienced library assistive technology centers in the United States.
CARL Corporation (www.carl.org), based in Denver, Colorado, is a leading developer of technology solutions for libraries. Over 1,000 libraries, serving 15 million library users, have selected CARL systems and products. CARL Corporation's innovative systems and products for libraries include: the CARL Information Management and Delivery System (IMDS), the UnCover online article database, Kid's Catalog, Everybody's Catalog, CARLweb, and Dialog@CARL.
