NPL's new online system
Links to new features include ebooks, DMV practice tests, medical information, scholastic resources, new and popular books at the Library, etc.
After clicking Book Search on the Library’s homepage, you’ll see the covers of new books scrolling across the screen. Clicking a cover brings up information about the book.
This October the Navasota Public Library's new online system went live. Tiffany Byers, Library Director, says that she spent about six months looking for a replacement for the old system. After researching, the Apollo system was chosen. Byers said she thinks it has a better interface than the old system and has many more features. Apollo is accessed by clicking Book Search on the Library website, navasotatx.gov/public-library.
One of the first things you’ll see are the covers of new books that scroll across the screen. Clicking a cover brings up information about the book. There are also links to free resources:
• Ebooks and audiobooks.
• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles videos and practice tests.
• Portal to Texas history which includes old newspapers, photos, maps, etc.
• National Library of Medicine health information.
• Scholastic Book Expert, a resource for teachers, students, and parents.
There is additional functionality if you create an account which is the numeric portion of your library card number. The initial password is the last 4 digits of your phone number. Byers asks that you call the Library at 936-825-6744 if your current phone number is not on file.
Byers said, "I think Apollo is really great because it gives the public more control of their accounts. They're able to setup reminders via text or email about [when their books are due]. That way we don't have to send out reminder letters. They're also able to place books on hold." She said the History feature is one of her favorites. "We have a lot of patrons that ask us to look back to see what books they've checked out recently. When an author has written several books you may forget the titles of the ones you've read." Speaking from experience, she said, "Sometimes I get about five pages in and realize oh, yeah, I know how this ends."
The new services are in addition to existing services available to Grimes County residents that include computer use, wifi, printing, newspaper and magazine subscriptions, etc. The Library is at 1411 E. Washington Ave. in Navasota, TX. For more information call, visit their website or go to facebook.com/navasotatx.gov.