Surpass Software, provider of library automation solutions, has released Surpass Serials periodical management software. Surpass Serials is compatible with Surpass and other library automation systems. The new program offers users easy monitoring of the delivery and cataloging of newspapers, magazines, and other periodicals.

Surpass Serials features easy entry of regular subscriptions and special issues to a materials database, printed routing lists to easily distribute an issue within a selected group, issues receivable by scanning UPC codewhen available, customizable claims notices to send to suppliers, the option to automatically generate MARC records, and a variety of reports.

Surpass Serials tracks receipt of periodicals and subscription information to help libraries monitor receipt of materials. When an issue is late, Surpass Serials creates a customized claims notice to the supplier. This notice can be printed, or Surpass Serials will e-mail the letter to the address you indicate. The Vendor History report shows you which vendorsdo best getting you issues on time and alerts you to those with poor delivery performance.

Enter subscription information, including delivery frequency, just once for each periodical. To receive issues, simply scan the UPC or check off the issue from a list of materials due to arrive. The user can even add special or bonus issues. For materials distributed to a group, Surpass Serials will print routing lists using information from your patron database.

Whether or not a library circulates periodicals, Surpass Serials is essential to manage subscriptions. For libraries that do want to circulate magazines, Surpass Serials provides added features. The user can set Surpass Serials to automatically generate the MARC record when an issue arrives and insert it into the materials database. Surpass Serialsoffers the user the flexibility to choose the circulation category for each subscription and control how the call number should look.

When it’s time to budget and select periodicals for the next year, Surpass Serials saves time and prevents the user from overlooking subscriptions. Run the Subscriptions Expiring report and know instantly the title and cost of each subscription expiring in the next year. Use the Subscriptions List report to guide selection. Surpass Software is offering early-purchase pricing through July 31, 2002. Surpass Serials is $399 through March 31, 2002; and $425 through July 31, 2002. After July 31, 2002, Surpass Serials is full-price, $475.

For a detailed tour of Surpass Serials and other Surpass Software products, visit SurpassSoftware.com.

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.