Press Release

 October 20, 2008

 Innisfil Public Library debuts Evergreen software, Web-based catalogue.

Innisfil Public Library is the first public library in Ontario to go live with Evergreen, an open-source, consortial-quality automated system which helps libraries manage, catalogue and circulate their collection of materials.

“The new public catalogue’s flexible search tools offer library customers a more efficient and user-friendly experience” said Chief Librarian, Susan Downs. “We are delighted that our library system has been able to implement this service-oriented software”.  Library materials are easier to locate; there are more options for control of personal accounts and, since Evergreen includes a wealth of security enhancements, more protection of personal information. 

Evergreen was initially developed by the Georgia Public Library Service and the Public Information Network for Electronic Services (PINES) consortia to support a resource sharing consortium of over 270 public libraries in Georgia State. Since its launch in 2006, it has received world-wide recognition for its ability to support academic and public libraries of all sizes.  In Canada, British Columbia’s SITKA consortium of public libraries, Laurentian University, University of Windsor, McMaster University, Simon Fraser University and the University of Prince Edward Island have either migrated or are planning to migrate to Evergreen. Open source software has no licensing or acquisition costs; anyone has the freedom to use, study or improve the software.

Innisfil’s “single-plant” of Evergreen was managed by library staff, working in conjunction with Garry Dunn, President of Trellis Consulting. SITKA, Dan Scott of Laurentian University and all those involved in the development of Evergreen are to be thanked for their encouragement and assistance.

The new software has been available to the public since October 7th but will be formally launched during Ontario Public Library Week, October 19 to 25. The catalogue can be found through the library’s website at www.innisfil.library.on.ca.