Surpass Software has released version 3.0 of Surpass Central and Surpass Safari, the core components of the Surpass library automation family of products. New features include cataloging templates, see and see also cross-references, integration features for users of Scholastic's Reading Counts(tm) software, and the ability to send patron notices via e-mail.

Surpass Central's use of cataloging templates will make data entry even easier for Surpass users. Templates are included for various material types, including video and audio recordings, atlases, computer software, kits, and serials. When the user opens a template, Central automatically selects the most common fields for the type of media selected. Central even adjusts field names when the change is useful for entering materials of that type. For example, though MARC 028b field data is most commonly "publisher source," Central changes the field label to prompt the user for "producer or distributer" when using the video catalog template.

Surpass Central boasts a flexible patron notices feature that offers the ability to save customized versions of notice text. Patron records chosen for notices can be defined by placing conditions on patron fields. Central version 3.0 has enhances notices with the addition of e-mail distribution capability. Users will find it helpful and economical that Central is easily configured to send an e-mail notice to patrons with an e-mail address and print a notice for other patrons.

E-mail notice delivery is available for overdue, fines, delinquent, reserve, and password notices. Surpass Central 2.0 brought the ability to enhance MARC records with Accelerated Reader(tm) program information. Central 3.0 extends its capability to users of Scholastic's

Reading Counts(tm). Though some automation companies require a fee for a special service to enhance holdings records, this feature has been built into Surpass Central. At no extra cost, Central users can quickly import a list of Reading Counts(tm) or Accelerated Reader(tm) tests. Central smoothly enhances the MARC records for those resources.

Also new to Surpass Central 3.0 and Safari 3.0 is the use of see and see also cross-references. Cross-references appear with results of subject or author searches in the Safari catalog. Surpass comes with a starter set of cross-references which users can edit, delete, or add to.

Surpass 3.0's many other enhancements and updates include the capability to print catalog cards (ideal for small libraries still maintaining card drawers); easily enter Web sites to MARC records (the URL can even be automatically captured from the URL field of an open browser); print receipts for lost materials collections; adjust margins and font size on printed spine labels; and automate database maintenance scheduling.

Summary of new features in Central 3.0 and Safari 3.0:

• Cataloging Templates
• Patron notices via e-mail
• See and See Also cross-references
• Integration features for users of Scholastic's Reading Counts program

Surpass library automation products are affordable, full-featured programs used by customers with varying needs. Surpass is found in many types of libraries, including those in public and private schools, parochial institutions, corporate resource centers, and church media centers. A special bundle is available for libraries with collections of fewer than 5,000 items. Free 60-day trial versions are available at SurpassSoftware.com or by calling toll-free (877) 625-2657.