Innovative Interfaces, announced a record-setting number of implementations of the Sierra Release 2.1 following its general release in December 2015. Over 150 library systems are now live, including academic, public, national, corporate, and special libraries and consortia worldwide. This represents more than 2,000 library locations of all sizes, across more than sixteen countries.
Most importantly, the release introduces the Sierra Web Application, offering circulation features directly through a Web browser without requiring software installation. This includes search and hold, count use, renew no patron, and check-in no patron functionality.
“London Public Library was an early adopter of Sierra Release 2.1 and I must say that it was an effortless update for us,” said Eeva Stierwalt, Integrated Library System Solutions Specialist, Information Technology at London Public Library. “Of all the new features it offers, staff are particularly excited about the debut of the Sierra Web Application and the flexibility it offers our public services staff as they become more mobile performing outreach off-site and in the stacks using Wi-Fi with tablets and other hand-held devices.”
In addition to the Sierra Web Application, features in Sierra Release 2.1 include:high availability and secure cloud services deployment;mobile solutions to drive productivity and simplify workflows for library staff; new capabilities for public access and real-time discovery; second generation Open REST-based APIs, specifically targeted to Academic Library requirements;
and an additional partner integrations across the library ecosystem.
“Innovative is committed to a rapid pace of Sierra development for our library partners, focusing on the key areas that will help drive library success,” said Leif Pedersen, Executive Vice President at Innovative. “Sierra Release 2.1 provides the opportunity for libraries to implement the solutions that work best in the context of their technology requirements, such as Web Application, cloud deployment, and the Open REST API framework. As we continue to evolve Sierra’s core functionality, we’re able to create better staff workflows and introduce new features that make the library user experience more satisfying.”
According to surveys completed by Innovative partner libraries, providing open architecture is a top priority. As a result, Sierra Release 2.1 increases the simplicity of these enterprise-wide integrations across the Innovative partner network.
“Integrating eReserves with the Sierra Release 2.1 has been easy and a pleasure,” said Karey Patterson, Managing Director of eReserve. “Together our solution now enables academic libraries to seamlessly manage their print and electronic course lists and workflows from within the learning management system, while maintaining campus wide copyright compliance course materials management just got a whole lot easier and everyone wins.”
Many of the Sierra Release 2.1 developments will be showcased at upcoming Innovative User Group (IUG) events worldwide. IUG details can be found on the Innovative Events Calendar. For more information about the Sierra Library Services Platform, visit the Innovative website.