Cass District Library

Polaris Migration

Polaris migration

In March, Cass District Library (CDL) will be switching to a new circulation software that will provide a more user-friendly and customizable experience for all. 

The launch of Polaris and Vega Discover marks the culmination of months of preparation and the successful migration of tens of thousands of records, including patron information, library catalog data, and web content, to the new system. CDL has partnered with Clarivate for this upgrade, choosing Clarivate’s Polaris ILS and accompanying Vega tools to enhance library services. 

Vega Discover is a comprehensive discovery tool that delivers premier search results, personalized patron bookshelves, custom reading lists, account management, and curated showcases. It offers a responsive and accessible solution that enhances how patrons engage with library resources both in-person and remotely. With enriched content powered by Syndetics Unbound, such as series data, reader reviews, and browse-by-reading level, the tool ensures a more engaging and informative exploration of library materials. 

Polaris, the intuitive web interface of Vega LX, brings ILS functionality to both web browsers and mobile devices, allowing library staff to connect with patrons and perform tasks wherever it’s most convenient, whether inside or outside the library. Together, Vega Discover and Polaris offer improved functionality, seamless user experiences, and expanded discovery opportunities, ensuring CDL patrons have access to a richer, more accessible library experience both on-site and virtually. 

CDL will launch a new mobile app that boasts a modern look and feel. The app integrates with Polaris, is user-friendly, and enhances the discoverability of CDL’s vast collections and services. 

The Library continues to welcome feedback from staff, patrons, and the community about the upgrade. The input will be invaluable in fine-tuning the functionality of the products to ensure a positive patron experience. Feedback can be shared at gporter@cassdistrictlibrary.org

What to expect

During the migration there will be a few temporary changes to the normal functionality of the online catalog. This includes the inability to access your library account, renew items, put items on hold, and request items via MeL.

  • February 25 & 26

    Staff Training

    All locations will be closed as staff will be training to use Polaris. This will be a massive undertaking for Library staff, so please bear with us as we become accustomed to the new system. 

  • March 6

    Data Transfer

    New items will no longer be added to the catalog. The addition of new items to the library catalog will commence once we go live on March 20. 

  • March 15 - 19

    Transition Week

    • We will be unable to check returned items in. We will extend loan periods until we are able to check items in again. Holds cannot be placed during this time. 
    • You may still check out materials, but items must be brought to the Circulation Desk. 
    • New library cards cannot be issued and changes to patron accounts cannot take place at this time. 
  • March 20

    GO live!

    The Library will open at 10:00am this day to give staff time to prepare for the switch to our new circulation software and to troubleshoot any issues. 

  • May 20

    pause in mel borrowing

    Patrons will be unable to request items from lending libraries and will be unable to access their MeL accounts. We foresee MeL to be down for a period of time. We will work to restore service as soon as possible. We appreciate your patience during this transition. 

  • More to Come

    In the months immediately following go live, CDL will implement additional Vega products to enhance the patron experience, including new methods for program registration and communications. 

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