3 Key Features of Library Software You’re Not Using (But Should Be)

Libraries have come a long way from being just places to check out books. Today, they’re vibrant community hubs filled with physical books, digital resources, learning events, and more. But as libraries have evolved, so too has the technology behind them. 

If you’re already using a library management system, that’s great! But are you using it to its full effect? Chances are that in your system, there may be several features that could make your life a lot easier and your library even more efficient.

What is a library software?

Before we dive into those hidden gems, let’s briefly touch on what library software actually is. In simple terms, it’s a digital tool designed to help librarians and staff manage everything from cataloging and circulation to patron communication and event management. Think of it as the command center for your library operations, helping you organize and streamline various tasks.

However, library scheduling software is more than just a tool to keep track of who has which book checked out. Today’s platforms offer an array of features impressive enough to automate pesky processes, keep patrons engaged, and help libraries make decisions based on data. Now, let’s get into the three features you might be missing out on!

Automated patron notifications

Ah, notifications, the little pings and reminders that can save us from missing appointments or letting library books become hopelessly overdue. But did you know most library software systems have automated patron notifications? You might know how to manually send notices about overdue books, but this feature is so much more!

What is it exactly?

Automated notifications for patrons can be emails, SMS messages, or app-based alerts. Namely, they will notify your patrons about due dates, upcoming events, or personalized reading recommendations based on their borrowing history. In essence, this is a feature meant to make communication between the library and patrons smooth and proactive.

What makes it valuable?

First and foremost, automated notifications save both you and your staff a lot of precious time. Gone are the days of manually sending reminders or calling patrons about returning their books; let the software do that for you! 

Efficiency isn’t everything; sometimes, it’s also about enhancing the user experience. Imagine receiving a friendly text reminding you about that book you need to return or an email with suggestions for new titles in your favorite genre. Cool, right?

Patrons appreciate the heads-up, and it encourages a stronger connection between them and the library.

How to use it effectively

To get the most out of this feature for your library software, make sure they’re personalized and timely. For instance, set up alerts for upcoming due dates, overdue books, and events that match the patron’s interests. Additionally, most library systems allow you to customize the language and format of these notifications. Ideally, you can choose to keep it casual or as formal as the style of the library permits.

Also, don’t stop at book reminders, use notifications to promote new events, reading programs, or even special discounts on late fees. It’s all about keeping your patrons engaged and informed without overwhelming them.

Digital resource management

In the age of Kindles, iPads, and smartphones, physical books no longer hold monopolies. Nowadays, digital collections such as e-books, audiobooks, and online databases have a special place in each and every modern library. 

But do you get full benefits from the digital resource management features of your library software? If not, then you’re just missing out on an enormous opportunity to provide services to tech-savvy patrons.

The definition

It is pretty much just what it sounds like: functionality within your library software that enables you to curate, categorize, and distribute your digital collections. Whether it’s making eBooks, audiobooks, or research databases accessible to patrons, this feature within your library software enhances accessibility. It ensures your digital assets are just as easily available as your physical ones.

What makes it worthwhile?

This feature is crucial because, let’s face it, we’re living in a digital age. Patrons expect libraries to offer more than just physical books. They want the convenience of downloading an audiobook or accessing a digital magazine from the comfort of their own home. 

By effectively managing digital resources, libraries can meet modern demands and attract more patrons. This is especially true for younger generations, who are more comfortable with digital formats rather than traditional ones. 

What’s more, digital collections fill in the gaps in their accessibility. For patrons with mobility or a shortage of time to regularly visit libraries, resources from library software prove a godsend. For illustration, digital borrowing of books in libraries and schools experienced an extraordinary increase of 605 million in 2023.

Tips for optimal use

In order to achieve the best results from your digital collections, make your catalog so simple to navigate on the library website and within the library itself. Specify categories such as “New Releases,” “Staff Picks,” or “Books for Young Adults” in your library management system, for example.

Moreover, one more thing that must be shared with your digital resources is promoting them! Frequently, library-goers are unaware of other internet resources available in their library. They become hunters and gatherers searching for answers or information using traditional methods. For instance, link your software to the library catalog so users can request online book purchases through their account.

Advanced analytics and reporting

Data isn’t just for big corporations and tech companies, libraries can benefit from it, too! Most library software systems come with advanced analytics and reporting tools that can help you make informed decisions about everything.

So, what is that?

Enhanced analytics and reporting features allow you to track a variety of metrics within your library. You can see which books are the most popular, what times of day your library gets the most traffic, and which demographic groups are utilizing certain services. It’s essentially a behind-the-scenes look at how your library is operating based on real data.

Why should you care about it?

Making decisions based on data rather than guesswork is always a good idea. Advanced analytics can help you identify trends in your library, such as which types of books are most often borrowed. It can also highlight underused resources and reveal which events draw the most attendance. 

Owing to this feature, your library software’s offerings can be optimized to meet the needs of your patrons better.

For example, if a certain genre of books consistently has a long waitlist, you might order more titles. Or, if you notice a specific demographic isn’t engaging with the library, you can tailor events to attract them. 

Mastering the mojo

One of the things you have to do to make the most of the advanced analytics you have at your disposal is to analyze the data and use it in your decisions constantly. Generate reports that examine the most important KPIs for your library namely, circulation statistics, event attendance, or digital resource usage. By then, the information obtained should be used to prepare future expenditures and adjust the schedule for upcoming events. Additionally, it can help improve the overall functioning of the library.

As a matter of fact, you can even communicate the main issues with the local library board or other relevant stakeholders in your library.  By doing so, you demonstrate the library’s responsiveness to community needs and highlight areas for improvement.

Conclusion

There’s no denying that library software is an essential tool for modern libraries. However, it’s important to make sure you’re using it to its fullest potential. 

HDStudio.App’s tailored software goes beyond basic functionalities, offering advanced features and customization options. So, if you haven’t explored these hidden gems in your library management system, now’s the time!