FAQs About Our New Library Catalog

Update: 12/26/2010

The Finkelstein Library has upgraded its catalog and circulation system.  Millennium is a cutting-edge system that offers you the kind of modern services you have come to expect when you go online.

Unlike our old system, Millennium is independent of the other libraries in the Ramapo-Catskill Library System, and offers a much wider world of information and resources to its customers.

What does this mean to you?  Here are the answers to some of the more frequent questions asked by library patrons:

I liked the old system.  It worked and I knew how to use it.  Why did the library change?

Many factors went into the library’s decision to upgrade to a new system.  Here are a few of the most important ones:

1.       The ability to search in non-English languages. We believe this is a vital service to any community, but particularly to one with the rich and varied cultural mix that we have in our community.
2.      Access to a wider range of libraries and their collections.  The Internet has given library users much higher expectations.  You know what should be available for you, and Millennium provides a better way to get what you need. 
3.      In the long run, Millennium is less expensive for the library to operate, saving you tax dollars.

Will I need a new card?

No. Your existing Finkelstein Library card will be honored at all libraries.

So  I can still use any library?

Yes. You may continue to visit any RCLS library and check out materials currently on the shelves in accordance with each library’s borrowing policies.  Please note that as of January 1, you will not be able to place reserves on materials through those libraries’ catalogs.  Reserves on materials in other libraries must be placed through the Millennium catalog, either by visiting the Finkelstein Library or through our web page at finkelsteinlibrary.org.

Why is that?  I have always been able to place holds at any library.

Even within a library system, libraries are not required to supply materials or services for borrowers who are not in their tax district.   For example, both the Suffern and Haverstraw libraries voted to restrict access for Finkelstein Library card holders months ago.   Borrowing policies are the decision of each library’s Board of Trustees.  In accordance with library philosophy and mission, the Finkelstein Library Board continues to maintain open access for all library card holders in the Ramapo-Catskill Library System.

In short, cardholders from other libraries are welcome to reserve material and borrow material through the Finkelstein Library's new catalog as they have always done. Materials must be picked up at the Finkelstein Library. For more information about this policy, please see the Board of Trustees announcement on December 23rd.

So, can I still get books, movies, and music from other local libraries?

Yes, and much more.   The new interloan system also accesses library catalogs from a broader geographical area, and includes college, hospital, and museum libraries. 

I put a reserve on an item from another library, but it doesn't show in my record. Did I make a mistake? Should I put the reserve on again?

Not to worry. The reserve is there, so you don't have to place the hold again. Because the Millennium system is not directly connected to the RCLS catalog, there is another step that the library staff has to add that finalizes your request. Although the reserve is in place, there is a delay before you can see the reserve displayed in your cardholder record.

Will the books still be sent to Finkelstein Library?  Or will I have to go to the other lending library and get them?

The books, movies, and music will be sent to the Finkelstein Library as usual, and a staff member will call you.  At the moment, there is no email notification system available.  We hope to add that feature in the future.

Can I return materials I borrow from Finkelstein to any library?
Yes. You may return items to any library. Because the Ramapo-Catskill system is not directly connected to our new system, there is a short check-in delay.  You will not automatically see returns in your borrowing record. 

Who do I call if I have more questions?

• For technical problems, such as login problems, please call the library at 352-5700.
  
  
• For all other concerns, email Library Director Bob Devino (bdevino@rcls.org) or Board President Richard Rothbard (fmlboard@rcls.org) or call 352-5700.
  

As with any change, there are a few bumps in the road.  The library is addressing them as quickly as possible and is very appreciative of your continued patience and support.

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