The migration of the U-M Library’s technology system to a new platform begins June 16 and is expected to take up to six weeks.
There will be some delays and interruptions in library services during the transition and afterward as library staff members bring the new system online and catch up with work delayed during the migration.
more information
This migration is the culmination of years of work, the end result of which will be a reliable technology system that safeguards access to the library’s robust collection by updating the tech infrastructure to one that meets modern-day standards.
“It’s not ideal that we’re completing this work while simultaneously navigating the pressures and changes resulting from the pandemic, but this massive project was already in motion,” said James Hilton, dean of libraries. “I hope folks will be patient when they run into service disruptions resulting from the migration.”
During most of the migration, users will still be able to find, borrow and request materials. However, from July 12-20 the ability to request physical items from the library catalog will be paused. The “Get This” option will still be available to request a scan and to request items using interlibrary loan for contactless pickup.
The library’s catalog will not be updated with new items during the transition. Ordered items that arrive during this time, and requests for new items, will be processed after the changeover.
The transition to the new platform also requires that Mirlyn Classic be retired, as the new library technology system doesn’t support prior versions of the library catalog.
The library is also preparing to launch a redesigned “My Account,” which will provide more complete account information — item checkouts and requests for materials (including interlibrary loan and special collection requests).
Coming updates to Library Search will allow users to:
- Browse the catalog by call numbers to find similar items that would be located nearby on library shelves. Browsing by subjects, authors or titles will be added later, as they are completed.
- Take advantage of an improved search algorithm that returns more reliable and consistent results based on search terms.
- Follow additional on-screen guidance for using new and existing search features.
Notices will appear on the library’s website as needed for services affected during migration.
