We save members time and money by facilitating collaborative projects and delivering services designed by our members to meet their needs.
LIBRARY SYSTEMS
Main empowers your library to focus more on the end-user and less on back-end library systems. Member libraries together select vendors to create a common staff experience for integrated library system (ILS), discovery catalog, mobile app, cataloging and additional services. Main’s employees are subject matter experts on these systems who are able to provide timely and professional support for your library.
SHARED MATERIALS
Over 99% of member libraries’ books, movies, video games, and other physical materials are accessible either via walking into a member library or via New Jersey’s delivery system. Use the catalog to see what is available and reserve an item in advance, or call ahead and ask for assistance. If an item is not immediately available, email and text notifications are available to track updates. There are over 3 million items to choose from!
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Libraries have unique technical needs, needing to service both the public and its staff. Main employs a team of IT professionals who support member libraries on issues ranging from wire and wireless networks to public-facing desktop computer motherboard failure. Main can also act as a consulting resource to help libraries prepare for changes in the technical realm.
DIGITAL RESOURCES
The library may not be open 24/7, but the digital library is! Library card holders at Main member libraries don’t only have access to a large physical collection. Member libraries share eBook, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines via the Libby app, and can access additional resources like Tumblebooks for Kids, Mango Languages, and ConsumerReports.org any time.
GROUP PURCHASING
Save time and stretch your library’s dollars by taking advantage of third-party vendor discounts negotiated by Main. Place orders for computer hardware directly through the Main website portal or sign up for subscriptions to vendors ranging from Dell to Faronics and Brainfuse to EBSCO
TECHNICAL TRAINING
Keeping up with the latest versions and updates to library systems and public-facing IT is a challenge. Member library staff members, both new and experienced, have access to technical training conducted by Main’s staff to help ease this burden.
CONTINUING EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Coordinating speakers at an individual library is often cumbersome and not cost-effective. Main handles the logistics for a multitude of events throughout the year for member library staff, and to a lesser extent, library trustees. Topics are diverse and sequences of classes are targeted at different types of employees – not just library directors.
NETWORKING
Main provides opportunities for member library staff members to collaborate and discover how fellow libraries are tackling similar issues. Committees and advisory groups grow an employee’s network of colleagues and nourishes their ability to bring new ideas to your library.
