Hello again,
Firstly, thank you for the
feedback we received from your staff! We have already made some changes based
on their questions.
Secondly, while we prepare staff
training, an FAQ document has been added to the Training Portal (hover over
Learning Resources tab then select Library Functions and look for MyLink Online Library Card): http://training.houstonlibrary.org/library-function
We are using two locations to
pilot the project: Central and Jungman. Because our locations vary so much, we
need to figure out a designated workstation (desktop or tablet) that will
function as a library card registration spot. In most cases, it will be the
catalog/database computer. Once we have gathered enough data and tweaked the
form, we will have a better idea about a roll out plan. In the meantime, please
continue to use the paper application form (except Central and Jungman). Of
course, you are welcome to direct your customers to the online form. Already
about 44 customers in Texas have registered online and the form’s been live
less than 2 days!
A few reminders that are
necessary for staff to know:
· There is a built-in address verification however this may
not always work so you may have to use the traditional method to verify
address;
· Form will recognize a duplicate;
· Youth registrations will take place on-site (HPL
location) only;
· Check if customer is already using Overdrive; if yes,
then proceed to submit the Overdrive merge account request;
· This is what staff will need to do to update the user
record in Workflows:
o
From the Circulation tab, under the Users
group, use the Modify User wizard to update the user record:
§
User ID - replace it with the 77422… barcode
number;
§
Library - change it from HOU-ONLINE to your
location or customer’s preferred location;
§
Profile Name - change it from PUBLIC to one
that applies to the customer;
§
Change History Rule: ask the customer if
they want to keep a checkout history; then change it from circrule to
allcharges; remind them to opt in when they log into the library account at
home. Not changing it will NOT prevent the customer from checking out items or
placing them on hold;
§ If customer agrees with device checkout policy, then
change user cat2 to laptop-yes under the Demographics tab.
Please continue to send your questions and suggestions to
Virtual Library Services (hplvirtuallibrary@houstontx.gov).
Please share this information with your staff.
Sincerely,
Saima