Navigating the intricacies of an Integrated Library System (ILS) is second nature to you, mastering tasks like cataloging, circulation, and managing patron records. But what if there’s a way to elevate your library’s efficiency to the next level? Let’s explore five productivity hacks that could redefine the way you manage your library’s operations. 

1. Automate Reports 

Data-driven decision-making is pivotal for library management. Automated reporting facilitates a deeper understanding of user behaviors, resource popularity, and the overall performance of the library. Liberty’s advanced reporting capabilities allow automatic scheduling and generation of statistical reports. Automating this process saves valuable time and enables staff to concentrate on other things, rather than manual data collection and analysis. 

2. Setup Email Templates 

Effective communication is at the heart of building a strong organizational presence. Liberty can streamline this by providing customizable email templates for various communications, such as welcoming new users, accessing their complimentary mobile app, Liberty Link, or reminding users about their current loans. This approach not only saves time but also guarantees consistent, professional communication with users, allowing libraries to effortlessly maintain a personal connection. 

3. Automated Personalized Newsletters 

Ensuring your users are well-informed about new resources is crucial for maintaining engagement. Liberty supports this through automated alerts to notify users about new materials tailored to their interests. This not only highlights the latest additions to your collection but also provides continuous engagement. Automating these notifications ensures timely updates and an increase in the visibility of your collection. 

4. Use A Mobile App 

The Liberty Link mobile app revolutionizes the way library staff interact with their Liberty-managed library systems. Designed for both Android and iOS devices, this app offers time-efficient solution for managing everyday library tasks — including loans, returns, stocktake and even weeding — directly from a mobile device. By serving as an extension of the Liberty system, Liberty Link allows library staff to perform their duties beyond the confines of their desks or even their libraries. 

5. Provide QR Codes For Productivity  

QR codes provide a clever shortcut between the library’s physical space and its digital resources enabling librarians to offer instant access to the online catalog, digital collections, reading lists and more through a simple smartphone scan. Visit sharemylibrary.app to get started creating your personalized QR codes today and start promoting your collections! 

Any of these five productivity hacks could significantly enhance your library’s operations and the quality of service you deliver. By embracing automation, data analytics, and mobile technology, you’ll not only see improvements in your own efficiency but also, as a bonus, user engagement. If you’d like help implementing any of these in Liberty or you’re considering upgrading your ILS, our team at Softlink IC is here to help.