Suggestions

Elf Library Subscription

Has Otago considered signing up to the Elf library service? (http://www.libraryelf.com/) I see that some other NZ university libraries have signed up, as well as many public libraries.

This service allows users to monitor books on loan and to receive due-date reminders for all their books, from multiple libraries. I have an account for the Dunedin Public Library, but it would be useful to be able to add the University library.

Users can sign up for a basic service for free and I think that libraries can sign up for free. But if the library pays a subscription, then users can receive extra services at no cost to themselves. Even if Otago were to sign up without paying a subscription, it would be good!
Greg

Dear Greg,

It's a good idea. We have had it suggested before, but we've always felt that there is a significant security issue with usernames and passwords. For us to be able to use this service we'd need to store University usernames and passwords on the LibraryElf servers.

At this stage it doesn't appear that LibraryElf uses any sort of security on their site (or at least on their signup page) making it easy for usernames and passwords to be intercepted by hackers. Perhaps this isn't such an issue for other libraries where their username and password only lets them in to the Library system, but for Otago it lets you into a range of other services such as PIMs and payroll information. So at this stage we're not keen to sign up to the service.

We do have courtesy notices and txting available as forms of notification. I know that doesn't help with tracking both University and Public Library books at the same time, but at least reminders are sent out before the item is due.

SR.
30.11.09