By joining, NPL will have a new catalog and by joining this robust, statewide consortium, we will be offering more materials for patrons.
Why are we switching?
The primary reason for switching to Missouri Evergreen is to give our patrons access to more materials. Missouri Evergreen will allow NPL cardholders access to over 5 million items, compared to 35,000 in our current local collection. Patrons will have access to materials from over 60 libraries throughout the state of Missouri. The Missouri Evergreen collection continues to grow, and materials will be much easier to find, receive, and borrow than with our current catalog.
What does this mean for patrons?
The current online catalog, including access to patron accounts, will be unavailable for a couple of days right before the switch. The new Missouri Evergreen catalog will be available on Thursday, August 31st. There are some online services that patrons log in to using their library card numbers, such as Libby/Overdrive or other online resources that may not be available during that time, but we will be doing our best to ensure that they are available as much as possible.
What will change?
Once Missouri Evergreen is live at NPL, the biggest change for patrons will be the online catalog; it will look very different. For a preview, watch the video below produced by one of the Missouri Evergreen partner libraries, Scenic Regional Library, outside of St. Louis.
Note: This is an older tutorial, but the steps are very similar to the current user experience.
You can also preview how easy it will be to access your account to create a search for materials, review your item statuses, place holds, and request renewals by following the simple steps in the Patron Information brochure.
Since the OPAC (card catalog) will be the primary way in which our patrons find available items, both locally and through resource-sharing, we will have classes available for the public in September and October. Patrons may begin registering for these classes in August.
All patrons’ library card numbers will be changed from the current 3 or 4-digit library card numbers to a 14-digit number.
But don't worry, you won't have to memorize your new number because every NPL library member will be issued a brand new barcoded library card at your next visit after the 'go-live' date.
Your new PIN will remain as the last 4 digits of your phone number.
Frequently Asked Questions
I already have a Nevada Public Library card. What do I need to do?
Stop by the library on or after August 31st to receive your brand-new library card & patron ID number. We anticipate that your existing NPL card will continue to give you access to our collection (print and digital) and patron computers until the final switch is made.
You will still be able to look up items and place them on hold through the catalog, too. We will only have a 'freeze' on the catalog for 2-3 days, but NPL staff can assist you with reserves and title requests through a manual system and will notify you when items are available.
I have a Digital Access (eCard) only. What do I need to do?
If you currently have a Digital Access Card, your account will still be valid, but we will need to assign you a new patron ID number. Email us after September 1, 2023, to request your new Library Card number. Patrons can access all of our online resources, including OverDrive with an eCard. However, they cannot check out any physical items.
Can I still use my NPL card to get eBooks and eAudiobooks through Libby or OverDrive?
Yes, but there may be a brief pause in this service as our card numbers transition. We have been assured by Overdrive personnel that all holds and checkouts will be retained during the transition, but that NPL Library Cards must be changed to the 14-digit patron ID numbers. This change should be a smooth transition with NPL staff assistance.
This sounds great, but what if a title that I want isn't found in Missouri Evergreen, can I still get the materials I want?
Our new partnership gives our patrons access to nearly 6 million items so there is a lot to choose from, but if we can’t find what you’re looking for in our new catalog, NPL's staff can still request items through the traditional OCLC Inter-Library Loan process.
How long will I wait to receive holds?
Because our new partnership includes libraries from across the state of Missouri, some items may only take a few days to arrive, but typically items will be delivered to NPL within two weeks. Items coming from the KC metro area will typically get here more quickly as NPL's courier hub is in KC.
Will I have to pay to borrow items from Missouri Evergreen?
No. NPL cardholders with Full-Access privileges can borrow items through Missouri Evergreen with the same ten-item limit as we currently loan from our local collection. Items received from partner libraries in Missouri Evergreen are transported to NPL by a courier service. That service is funded through the Missouri State Library and no fee is charged to NPL or our patrons for the transport of materials.
Will I still be able to place holds and manage my library account online?
Absolutely! The new catalog will offer these same features and so much more!
Will borrowing periods and renewals change?
None of our checkout periods or renewal policies will change. Books, audiobooks, and movies can still be borrowed for 2 weeks. You can still renew eligible items in person, online, or by contacting your local library.
Will fines change?
No. Our Fine Free policy remains the same and charges for NPL or partner library items that are lost or damaged will be invoiced the same as our current policy outlines.
Are there any other perks I should know about?
Holds notifications via text message and other automated notifications, such as due date reminders via email or text, will be even more reliable.
There is an app for that! Missouri Evergreen also has a fantastic user-friendly app that makes accessing your account and searching for items easier than ever!
More questions?
Talk to your local library staff at NPL or email info@nplmo.org
This project is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services
under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act
as administered by the Missouri State Library,
a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
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