FAQs
Why have you changed Suffolk libraries direct? We have upgraded the library computer system to help us become more efficient and to provide better services for everyone. As a result Suffolk libraries direct has changed and has some new features.
What's different? These are some of the changes that you may notice:
Catalogue
Jacket images are shown for information to make recognition easier.
Log in
You only have to log in once instead of logging on for each function.
Your Guarantees
If you have family members' library records linked to your library card, you can see their accounts when you log in with your library card.
Wishlist
There is a Wishlist facility where you can save a list of titles you are interested in.
Get a library card
The form for getting a library card online is much easier to use.
Why don’t the links in the catalogue records work? If we subscribe to an electronic version of a title (such as Who’s Who 2011), we put a link from the catalogue record to the online copy. We need to update all the links to work with the new system.
What does 'Home branch' mean? There is a Home branch on your library record. Usually this is the branch where you joined. You can choose any branch as your Home branch - just ask library staff to change it. When you search the library catalogue, copies of titles in your Home branch will show first in the list. When you reserve a title on Suffolk libraries direct, your Home branch will be at the top of the list of service points where you can collect the reservation from. You can override this and choose another branch to pick up your reservation from.
I found the book I wanted on your website, and there was a button next to it "reserve now". But when I click it, it says it's not reservable. So why did it put the button there? The reserve button currently shows on some titles that can’t be reserved. If this is the case the next screen will tell you it is ‘non reservable’. It is a problem that we are working on and understand the inconvenience it is causing at the moment.
Why doesn’t the new system remind me when my books are due back? The option to have a reminder by email or sms text message when your books and other titles are due back is available now. Please ask library staff about this new service.
Why are there links to Amazon on the library catalogue? Suffolk libraries is a participant in the Amazon Europe S.à r.l. Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising programme designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk.
Ask your question
We will continue to improve Suffolk libraries direct and value your comments and suggestions. We may publish your question on this page.
Contact: Suffolk libraries direct
Email: help@suffolklibraries.co.uk
Telephone: 01473 584563