by Kelly Sheehy, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library

There’s big news at the Library. We’re creating a new website and app to improve your experience online. It’s been nearly a decade since your Library’s website had a refresh.  With more than 3,400,000 unique visits per year and an ever-increasing amount of browsing done from mobile devices, the time is right for an upgrade.

In fact, last year during our community listening sessions that took place at all 41 Library locations to inform the creation of our Facility Master Plan, one consistent piece of feedback we got was that our website was outdated and difficult to navigate. We heard you loud and clear!

We’re doing everything we can to ensure that our new website and app will be easy to use, and will connect you quickly to the information you’re looking for. The site and app will automatically adjust to any screen size, from smartphones to large monitors. We’ll also be using inclusive design features that bring our site up to date for customers who are partially sighted or use screen readers.

Smarter search 

Our new website and app will use a natural-language search, just like you’re used to on the rest of the web. Natural language detection means you’ll more easily find what you’re looking for.

All in one place 

Our current website has separate platforms for our catalog, events calendar, and website information, like our location pages. The new site and app will seamlessly integrate all three so you can have a consistent experience.

Better browsing, together 

You’ll be able to browse new titles, award winners, and lists created by Library staff and other readers. Ratings, comments, and tags will help you choose the perfect item from the Library’s collection.

Creating your own login means you’ll have access to a customized experience with personal record-keeping tools like My Shelves, My Lists, and My Profile.

Other new features include:  

  • Place a hold in one click
  • Save items to read, watch, or listen to later
  • Track what you’ve read, watched, or listened to
  • Share, rate, and review your favorite materials
  • View lists of favorite materials created by other customers and staff members
  • Relax with improved security and privacy – the only information that’s shared with others is what you choose to share!

Coming Soon 

You can expect to see our new and improved look later this summer. We’ll keep you posted on new developments as they arise. We can’t wait to share the new site with you—we think you’ll love it!

In-person Services Resume

Find out when limited in-person service returns to your branch.