Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council partners with PTFS Europe to give residents better access to books and e-content via a mobile app
Last updated on: 11th December 2024| 11th December 2024 | Lauren Purton
Sefton Libraries has partnered with PTFS Europe to launch LiDA (Library Discovery App) – the companion app for their Aspen Discovery Library Engagement Platform.
Aspen LiDA provides a comprehensive mobile solution which Sefton Libraries were keen to introduce for their library patrons. Users are empowered with a quick and convenient way to search the library catalogue and manage their library account. Library patrons have access to a digital library card and can easily manage their library account activities (such as renew material and place reservations) with just a few taps.
One of the most innovative features is the Scan and Go functionality, which has quickly become a favourite among both library staff and users. This tool allows patrons to check out items from the library by simply scanning the barcode inside a book. The feature extends beyond the library’s walls, enabling users to verify book availability from their local library, even while browsing in bookstores or a friend’s bookshelf.
Aspen LiDA helps to modernise library interactions and make the library catalogue more accessible than ever before, creating a more user-friendly and efficient library experience.
LiDA Europe can be downloaded free of charge from both the App store and the Google Play store.
More information and demos are available on the PTFS Europe YouTube channel:
Lizzie Todd, Senior Development Manager at Sefton Libraries said:
“We are proud to be able to offer our customers an intuitive, mobile friendly library experience. Over 90% of our customers access our library catalogue via a mobile device so it’s fantastic we can offer a platform that makes the most of the features of mobile devices. Feedback from our customers has been incredibly positive with customers taking full advantage of all that LiDA has to offer.”
Fiona Borthwick, Head of Sales and Account Management at PTFS Europe said:
“We are thrilled that Sefton Libraries have launched LiDA and it is being very well received by their library users. They are the first of our libraries to use the app and their enthusiasm and support for it is incredible. We have already had lots of interest in LiDA from other libraries who have heard about Sefton Libraries’ experience. We hope that more libraries will see the fantastic benefits that this app offers their patrons and will consider launching it within their service.”
About PTFS Europe
PTFS Europe has a vision to make technology easy for libraries. We focus on enabling library users through high-quality, open-source software solutions. Our way of working is characterised by listening, finding solutions, reliable delivery and above all open communication. Our highly skilled team has a friendly and approachable style in delivering our quality implementation and support services.
We proudly work with customers across all UK library sectors, including public, academic, health, governmental, museum, law and special libraries. The reason so many customers continue to choose us is that we solve problems, we don’t sell software. When libraries join us as a customer, they are gaining the expertise of our developers, trainers, data migration experts, and experienced account managers to support them throughout the journey. As an ISO27001 accredited company, you can also rely on the quality and integrity of the support we’re providing.
More information on PTFS Europe: www.ptfs-europe.com
Any questions? Please contact fiona.borthwick@openfifth.co.uk
About Sefton Libraries
Sefton Libraries is a contemporary library service whose delivery goes “beyond the book”, delivering a varied community programme of engagement and support.
The service provides a comprehensive Library and Information Service as well as playing host to the Sefton’s Local Studies Collection and Archive. Through embracing technological innovation, our digital services encourage discovery of our collections.
Through an offer which is bespoke to the needs of our local communities, from Bootle’s docklands to the seaside town of Southport, we play a key role in making Sefton a healthier place to live. Through ambitious reader development and heritage projects, we create quality interactions instilling a sense of place that encourages local pride.
