SYRACUSE, N.Y., August 30, 2013 – Polaris Library Systems continues to improve upon the customer experience; streamlining the go-live process for libraries migrating to the Polaris integrated library system (ILS).

As a trusted provider of technology solutions for academic, private and public libraries, Polaris Library Systems has concurrently redefined and expedited the implementations procedure to more efficiently meet libraries' go-live deadlines for their new library software. To administer a high volume of implementations, Polaris analyzed its implementation model and staffed significantly, making it easier for libraries to switch their automation system.

"The process of switching to a new integrated library system is often perceived as a hassle or inconvenience," said Brad Rogers, director of customer operations, Polaris Library Systems. "By restructuring our Implementations Team and focusing on quality assurance, we are able to reduce inefficiencies and shorten the amount of time our customers are offline."

Libraries who select the Polaris ILS can expect a true partnership; as the Implementations Team takes ownership of, and works through, any challenges the library may experience in the transition to the new platform. As a result, Polaris has migrated numerous libraries to the Polaris ILS in record time, including:

• Salt Lake City Public Library System, composed of six libraries with an annual circulation over 6.5 million items, migrated from Innovative Interfaces in three and a half months.
• The Metro-Boston Library Network, composed of 53 libraries with an annual circulation of 3.8 million items, migrated from SirsiDynix in eight months.
• Baltimore County Library System, composed of 19 libraries with an annual circulation of 10 million items, migrated from The Library Corporation in four months.

Continuing to evaluate the ILS migration process allows Polaris to discover new ways to become more efficient, thus ensuring libraries a smooth transition to the Polaris ILS. Over a 90-120 day period, Polaris finished implementing 14 customers in parallel, bringing them all live within the same eight weeks. This accounted for 1,550 staff clients and 472 new libraries now operating on the Polaris ILS. Among the list of the 14 libraries implemented in parallel are:

• Illinois Heartland Library System, the largest consortium in North America, composed of 427 libraries with an annual circulation of 13 million items.
• Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System, composed of 26 libraries with an annual circulation over 9 million items.
• Columbus Metropolitan Library, composed of 21 libraries with an annual circulation of 18.5 million items.

With technology-rich software and an average implementation of four to five months, librarians can focus on growing their library as a community resource with unique products not available through other library automation systems.

As Polaris continues to evaluate and improve upon the implementations process, libraries nationwide can expect to see consistent results moving forward. Academic, private and public libraries interested in migrating to the Polaris ILS should call 800-272-3414 for more information.

About Polaris Library Systems

Polaris Library Systems is a leading library automation software company, earning the highest customer satisfaction ratings by focusing on one goal: helping librarians serve their communities. Established in 2003, Polaris Library Systems provides academic, private and public libraries with an integrated library system that boosts productivity, improves patron satisfaction and transforms how libraries connect, communicate and collaborate with their communities in the modern world. For more information, visit www.polarislibrary.com.