Library Elf Tech Talk

1. Library Elf Tech Talk Ralph Bingham Technology Librarian Gloucester County Library rbingham@gcls.org 856.223.6045 presented by South Jersey Regional Library Cooperative November 15, 2006

2. What is Library Elf? • Why Library Elf? • How does Library Elf work? • Privacy vs. Convenience • Promoting Library Elf

3. What is Library Elf? • “Elf is a [free] web-based and email tool for library users to keep track of their library borrowings.” • Helps patrons manage library loans and holds • Can send Email, SMS and RSS alerts • Can track multiple cards under one account • Created by an independent software developer in Canada

4. http://www.libraryelf.com

5. Why did GCLS choose Library Elf? • A Patron requested notification of materials that were coming due • Our ILS does not offer features that Elf provides • Patrons have control of account sign-up and management • Simple solution • Used by other libraries

6. How does Library Elf Work? • Patron signs up for a free account • Chooses library from a list or requests it be added to Elf • Enters library card number and PIN (if applicable) • Chooses notification methods and schedule

7. http://www.libraryelf.com/signup.aspx

20. Privacy vs. Convenience • Patrons voluntarily provide library card numbers and PINs • Elf’s Privacy Policy states that Unless ordered by court order, we will not sell, rent, disclose or otherwise make available your email address or other personal information to any outside party. • History not saved • Cookies used to track account logins • RSS file saved on server and can be viewed by public aggregators

21. http://www.libraryelf.com/privacy.aspx

23. Promoting Library Elf • We requested a Library Elf logo file and created a banner graphic • Library Elf provided text for our Library Elf webpage • Library Elf provided a Custom URL to make patron signups easier.

24. http://www.gcls.org