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Introducing a New Way to Search the Library Catalog!
 Why did the library change the website and catalog?
The new Library website offers dramatic improvements in both speed and access to the catalog. Not only can you access more items more quickly, but there are a variety
of enhancements and options to help you find what you are looking for. Many of the features are what you might find as common place on the Internet, such as tabbed navigation, sorting, built-in spell correction, "Did You Mean", integrated Library card account features and more.
The new site looks like a bookstore site. Why use this type of design for a library?
The new website was designed with you in mind. The Library completed various surveys and focus groups to help complete the design. We recognized very quickly that our users expect the same types of features found on more popular websites like "Amazon.com" and "Barnes & Noble".
As a result, we chose to organize the site into the popular types of items that many of you commonly come to the library for.
The Phoenix Public Library is one of the first public libraries in the country to take a stronger retail approach with its online catalog. Following this type of design philosophy helps to expose the richness of the Library's collection in ways that make sense to YOU. We invite you to explore the new site and hope that you agree. How do I get to my account and/or renew my items?
Your library card account is now directly integrated into the Library's website. Unlike many other common Library systems, the new website offers an integrative approach to catalog access and your library card account. Access to your account is offered by the "My Account" link located at the top of the Library website and viewed by using either your Library card number and last name, or the optional username and password feature if you have created one.
The new website also offers expanded features, such as personalized bookshelves, RSS based access, customized calendar views, and more. Can I still access the old library system?
Yes. The Library's older catalog search feature is available by selecting the "Classic Search" link located in the green bar underneath the search box.
Why does the left side of the web page change with every search?
The new Library website offers what is called "Guided Navigation". Simply put, the left side offers options that help to narrow your search results more easily.
The left side options are generated from the results that match your search. Any options you select are then listed at the top of your search results to
form a "breadcrumb trail". You can remove any of your criteria at any time of your search.
We invite you to play with this new feature. It is a great way to explore what the library has to offer! Why do you link to Amazon?
The Library's new platform allows for the addition of 3rd party content into the catalog. The Phoenix Public Library continuously evaluates the quality of this content and adds the information directly into the catalog for the benefit of our users. To date, we have incorporated over 50,000 product images, editorials, and reviews from Amazon, as well as reviews and listings from Nancy Pearl, N.Y. Times Bestsellers, and other award winners. Items displaying 3rd party content contain linkages back to the originating source, per the licensing agreement that makes this information available.
What is Endeca?
Endeca is the search engine platform used by the new website. More importantly, Endeca is the platform used by many retail organizations to help customers find what they are looking for. Companies like "Home Depot", "Barnes and Noble", "Chapters.Indigo" have successfully utilized Endeca for their customers. Using this type of platform enables the Library to offer an easier way to interact with the catalog.
How can I ask a question or get help with using the new site?
Help is available through the "Ask a Librarian" link located in the green bar under the search box. You can also view our listing of available help pages for more information.
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