Beta Website: latest developments in response to your feedback
Many thanks to all who have provided feedback so far on the beta version of the new Toronto Public Library website. The site has been available to the public for a few months now, and we continue to get valuable feedback every day. Here’s an update on what we’ve been doing and what’s next.
What We’ve Done in the Past Few Weeks
Session timeout: You’ve told us that once you’re logged in, you don’t want to be automatically logged out too quickly, especially if this results in you losing your place in the site. We’ve introduced a warning so you can refresh your session and stay logged in. It’s not working perfectly yet, but we hope it’s a step in the right direction. Your feedback on this feature is welcome.
RSS feeds for new titles lists: New titles lists are constantly changing, so this is a great way to keep up to date.
Improved performance: We continue to monitor performance and make adjustments as needed. We have just upgraded our servers and hope you will find the site responding faster.
Improvements to Hours & Locations: changes to layout and functionality have made the page faster to load and easier to use.
What We’re Planning to Do in the Near Future
Complete unfinished areas of the site, including access to online articles and databases, information about library services, and help pages.
Add more categories of award winners lists in the Books section.
Add a search box to the account page.
Longer-Term Projects
Some things you’ve told us you’d like to see will take more time to accomplish:
- A “wish list” feature
- A “Remember Me” option when signing in
- Personalizing search results to indicate which items you already have on hold
- Email reminders before items are due
- A mobile version of the site
- An online purchase request form
- Online registration and fine payment
As we move towards the full launch of the new website, we will allow you to choose whether or not to make the beta site your default TPL homepage. Once you select this option, the new site’s homepage will be the page that comes up every time you access www.torontopubliclibrary.ca.
If you haven’t done so yet, take a look at the beta website now and tell us what you think.
136 thoughts on “Beta Website: latest developments in response to your feedback”
Second the request for a mobile site (not an Apple-specific app, preferably)
Second the request for a mobile site (not an Apple-specific app, preferably)
It’s a real improvement thanks.
It’s a real improvement thanks.
It’s not officially TPL’s and can be a little up and down – but try http://mytpl.ca. You can search and locate books and it’s geolocation aware.
It’s not officially TPL’s and can be a little up and down – but try http://mytpl.ca. You can search and locate books and it’s geolocation aware.
How about a vote based purchase request form? I know you probably do that sort of thing on the backend anyway, but how about putting it up as a poll where people can suggest new books as well.
Personally, I’d love the option to buy used books. A number of books were best sellers when they came out and there’s 30 copies of them, but only 2 people read a copy at a time now. I’d love the option to buy up some of these copies that aren’t or will not be used going forward (ie if the author has passed away and new releases will not spur interest in older releases). This may be kinda out there, but thought I’d throw it–well–out there.
Great work on the site so far! Really looking forward to getting email reminders before items are due!
How about a vote based purchase request form? I know you probably do that sort of thing on the backend anyway, but how about putting it up as a poll where people can suggest new books as well.
Personally, I’d love the option to buy used books. A number of books were best sellers when they came out and there’s 30 copies of them, but only 2 people read a copy at a time now. I’d love the option to buy up some of these copies that aren’t or will not be used going forward (ie if the author has passed away and new releases will not spur interest in older releases). This may be kinda out there, but thought I’d throw it–well–out there.
Great work on the site so far! Really looking forward to getting email reminders before items are due!
It would be nice to be able to add events to my Outlook (or other web-based) calendar, such as the Salon series.
It would be nice to be able to add events to my Outlook (or other web-based) calendar, such as the Salon series.
I like the look of the new site, but had trouble figuring out how to navigate the website, e.g., log in/out and my account in such light print at the top it’s easy to miss them.
Also had trouble with Advanced search. Like boolean, but wasn’t sure if there were implied brackets and if so, where they go. Also would find it difficult to do real generalized searches (e.g. audio books, adult fiction, not horror not mystery)
I like the look of the new site, but had trouble figuring out how to navigate the website, e.g., log in/out and my account in such light print at the top it’s easy to miss them.
Also had trouble with Advanced search. Like boolean, but wasn’t sure if there were implied brackets and if so, where they go. Also would find it difficult to do real generalized searches (e.g. audio books, adult fiction, not horror not mystery)
Under the “Our Newest Titles” why is there no option for selecting nonfiction?
Under the “Our Newest Titles” why is there no option for selecting nonfiction?
Personally, I think present site appears more organized. The options for “your account” and “sign in” need to be more prominent in the Beta site – it is easy not to notice them. Either larger font, more noticeable colour, or boxed, etc.
Personally, I think present site appears more organized. The options for “your account” and “sign in” need to be more prominent in the Beta site – it is easy not to notice them. Either larger font, more noticeable colour, or boxed, etc.
The date formats used on the site are ambiguous. Please use the standard international date format:
YYYY-MM-DD.
The date formats used on the site are ambiguous. Please use the standard international date format:
YYYY-MM-DD.
Hi,
I love the TPL and all that it is doing with electronic resources. Generally the functionality of your website (old and new) is great. Keep up the good work.
Comment:
I find the new Home Page too busy. Navigation is not particularly well organized. I think you should use the same navigation layout as the other pages, i.e. top and left hand side. Move announcements to the right.
Thanks for the opportunity to comment.
Hi,
I love the TPL and all that it is doing with electronic resources. Generally the functionality of your website (old and new) is great. Keep up the good work.
Comment:
I find the new Home Page too busy. Navigation is not particularly well organized. I think you should use the same navigation layout as the other pages, i.e. top and left hand side. Move announcements to the right.
Thanks for the opportunity to comment.
One of the best ways for the Toronto Public Library organization to stay ahead of users’ needs is, in my opinion, to encourage users to provide feedback on what works well and what can be improved.
I recommend that one of the pointers on the Home Page to the right of Find Your Way should be: Customer Feedback.
At present the old website requires that you go to Contact Us and then search amongst the many sub-headings for Customer Feedback. If customer feedback really is valued, then it has to be made easy for customers to provide.
One of the best ways for the Toronto Public Library organization to stay ahead of users’ needs is, in my opinion, to encourage users to provide feedback on what works well and what can be improved.
I recommend that one of the pointers on the Home Page to the right of Find Your Way should be: Customer Feedback.
At present the old website requires that you go to Contact Us and then search amongst the many sub-headings for Customer Feedback. If customer feedback really is valued, then it has to be made easy for customers to provide.
Thanks! I didn’t know about them.
Thanks! I didn’t know about them.
Hi,
I think that the website feels bit crowded. There is too much going on visually. I wish you would go for Google-like simplicity or Apple-like simplicity.
But, I guess since you get paid from the Public purse you have an incentive to create work for yourselves.
Cheers,
SN.
Hi,
I think that the website feels bit crowded. There is too much going on visually. I wish you would go for Google-like simplicity or Apple-like simplicity.
But, I guess since you get paid from the Public purse you have an incentive to create work for yourselves.
Cheers,
SN.
Beta site does not recognize my library card number.
I prefer the present site…. it is less cluttered and more directly accessible than the beta site.
Beta site does not recognize my library card number.
I prefer the present site…. it is less cluttered and more directly accessible than the beta site.
Does beta site has “Exact Search” as the older version had. This was the most useful search.
Does beta site has “Exact Search” as the older version had. This was the most useful search.
Hi Natasha,
No, there is no “exact” or “browse” search in the beta site. You can continue to use the old catalogue if you prefer browsing an alphabetical list of titles, authors, or subjects. The new website’s search engine is designed to bring the most relevant match to the top of your search results. We have found that it usually works quite well when searching for a title or author.
Hi Natasha,
No, there is no “exact” or “browse” search in the beta site. You can continue to use the old catalogue if you prefer browsing an alphabetical list of titles, authors, or subjects. The new website’s search engine is designed to bring the most relevant match to the top of your search results. We have found that it usually works quite well when searching for a title or author.
with all the problems with Adobe Digital Editions and activation issues, there should be a way to return books on line
with all the problems with Adobe Digital Editions and activation issues, there should be a way to return books on line
For what it’s worth, I don’t think that the new site is ‘cluttered’ or ‘busy’ like the above commenters – I don’t know if they’re comparing it to other library sites or something, but compared to other current service-oriented search type sites, it stacks up pretty well. (ha! no pun intended). Keep up the good work!
I am running in to one bug though – I’m not sure if it’s the beta site or the underlying catalogue database, but I seem to get newly-released books later than the catalogue predicts. So, for instance, when I put a hold on John Doyle’s new soccer book (http://beta.torontopubliclibrary.ca/detail.jsp?R=2582254) before it came out, the catalogue said there were about 11 people in front of me, from what I remember. But even though the library has 26 copies, I wasn’t in the first wave of loans; I was actually more like 11th in line after the first wave of loans went out. The same thing seemed to happen with another new book, from Guy Kavriel Kay. So maybe the catalogue is only showing the number of holds in excess of the # of copies on order? Have you heard this issue from anyone else?
For what it’s worth, I don’t think that the new site is ‘cluttered’ or ‘busy’ like the above commenters – I don’t know if they’re comparing it to other library sites or something, but compared to other current service-oriented search type sites, it stacks up pretty well. (ha! no pun intended). Keep up the good work!
I am running in to one bug though – I’m not sure if it’s the beta site or the underlying catalogue database, but I seem to get newly-released books later than the catalogue predicts. So, for instance, when I put a hold on John Doyle’s new soccer book (http://beta.torontopubliclibrary.ca/detail.jsp?R=2582254) before it came out, the catalogue said there were about 11 people in front of me, from what I remember. But even though the library has 26 copies, I wasn’t in the first wave of loans; I was actually more like 11th in line after the first wave of loans went out. The same thing seemed to happen with another new book, from Guy Kavriel Kay. So maybe the catalogue is only showing the number of holds in excess of the # of copies on order? Have you heard this issue from anyone else?
Hi Dara,
It’s great to see the request for purchase will be available online – I was just telling my book club the other day that TPL does accept requests for purchase, so I’ll be able to tell them it’s going to be easier to do that soon.
It would be great to have access to other forms online, such as the request to authorize pick up of books by another person. Even if you have to take the form into the library to finalize the process, it would make life easier if you can print a pdf from home instead of having to go into the library to pick one up.
Hi Dara,
It’s great to see the request for purchase will be available online – I was just telling my book club the other day that TPL does accept requests for purchase, so I’ll be able to tell them it’s going to be easier to do that soon.
It would be great to have access to other forms online, such as the request to authorize pick up of books by another person. Even if you have to take the form into the library to finalize the process, it would make life easier if you can print a pdf from home instead of having to go into the library to pick one up.
Hello,
I like the new beta site but may I ask for an addition to the splash page. I would like to be able to personalize the first page/front page of the library site to include a small box that shows my local library’s operating times. Currently, I have to go through three unnecessary clicks. I would point you to what Ikea has done on its site: when floating over a product, a box appears that provides more detail about the product. why couldn’t you allow me to have my home library on the front page, and a pulldown that shows me the operating hours?
Thanks,
Maxx-Phillippe
Hello,
I like the new beta site but may I ask for an addition to the splash page. I would like to be able to personalize the first page/front page of the library site to include a small box that shows my local library’s operating times. Currently, I have to go through three unnecessary clicks. I would point you to what Ikea has done on its site: when floating over a product, a box appears that provides more detail about the product. why couldn’t you allow me to have my home library on the front page, and a pulldown that shows me the operating hours?
Thanks,
Maxx-Phillippe
feature suggestion:
add some kind of bibliographic file format print/output file format (one which is open source, royalty free license).
The UofT website has a “add to bibliography records” button and you can save all your searches to a printable, simple format. (they also do refworks but that’s a paid service, there should be at least one that’s free to use for everyone at TPL, without even a sign in required, as there is one paid and one free on the UofT cat). Much much easier than just printing out one page per item as TPL allows.
I’m probably not good enough at using the free software out there to suck up information by the old z55 or whatever it’s called protocol. But I’m sure most people aren’t either. So it should be a web interface, at least as good as the UofT printable list type of collated bibliography.
Very helpful either for going to one of the major branches to do research or for just having a page of “books to read” later on, posted on the fridge or kept in your briefcase.
feature suggestion:
add some kind of bibliographic file format print/output file format (one which is open source, royalty free license).
The UofT website has a “add to bibliography records” button and you can save all your searches to a printable, simple format. (they also do refworks but that’s a paid service, there should be at least one that’s free to use for everyone at TPL, without even a sign in required, as there is one paid and one free on the UofT cat). Much much easier than just printing out one page per item as TPL allows.
I’m probably not good enough at using the free software out there to suck up information by the old z55 or whatever it’s called protocol. But I’m sure most people aren’t either. So it should be a web interface, at least as good as the UofT printable list type of collated bibliography.
Very helpful either for going to one of the major branches to do research or for just having a page of “books to read” later on, posted on the fridge or kept in your briefcase.
as to the printable bibliography,
the protocol and software I had trouble with (therefore request the feature be web page accessible),
is z39.50
as per
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reference_management_software
as to the printable bibliography,
the protocol and software I had trouble with (therefore request the feature be web page accessible),
is z39.50
as per
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reference_management_software
don’t forget to transfer all the old help site to the new.
the secition on z39.50 connection (at hte end of the old site help…faqtroubleshoot…are you connecting using z3….)
is missing in the new help/troubleshooting beta site.
don’t forget to transfer all the old help site to the new.
the secition on z39.50 connection (at hte end of the old site help…faqtroubleshoot…are you connecting using z3….)
is missing in the new help/troubleshooting beta site.
I am so annoyed that every time I get used to a catalogue and find my way through it’s drawbacks (as
I haven’t seen any great improvements) you change it again. Maybe you should have taken the time
to figure out what you needed once! I’m sure way more money was spent on these many changes than it would have cost to design something great – which you still have not achieved!
I have a million things that I find wrong and not enough time to write – I in fact took the time on the last catalogue testing and many have still not been addressed so what’s the point.
I am so annoyed that every time I get used to a catalogue and find my way through it’s drawbacks (as
I haven’t seen any great improvements) you change it again. Maybe you should have taken the time
to figure out what you needed once! I’m sure way more money was spent on these many changes than it would have cost to design something great – which you still have not achieved!
I have a million things that I find wrong and not enough time to write – I in fact took the time on the last catalogue testing and many have still not been addressed so what’s the point.
Thank you. I was going to ask about the same too.
Thank you. I was going to ask about the same too.
a) I had to click about 5 “post a comment” links and then scroll waaay down to the page to get to the place to actually post a comment.
b) I hadn’t even noticed that there was a “beta site”. I use a bookmark which sends me to the catalog page directly, and there’s no mention of a new site there. And, after reading the list of outages, I don’t think I’ll use it for a while.
c) An event, the Information Fair for Seniors, which the library is trying to promote, is listed ONLY on the beta site! Can’t you put everything on both sites? Or at least favor the “standard” site?
Thanks,
Eleanor
a) I had to click about 5 “post a comment” links and then scroll waaay down to the page to get to the place to actually post a comment.
b) I hadn’t even noticed that there was a “beta site”. I use a bookmark which sends me to the catalog page directly, and there’s no mention of a new site there. And, after reading the list of outages, I don’t think I’ll use it for a while.
c) An event, the Information Fair for Seniors, which the library is trying to promote, is listed ONLY on the beta site! Can’t you put everything on both sites? Or at least favor the “standard” site?
Thanks,
Eleanor
http://beta.torontopubliclibrary.ca/detail.jsp?Nr=p_cat_branch_name:Burrows Hall
directions/feature/histroy/map
not working
seems this is problem at lots of pages
http://beta.torontopubliclibrary.ca/detail.jsp?Nr=p_cat_branch_name:Burrows Hall
directions/feature/histroy/map
not working
seems this is problem at lots of pages
At the North York Main Branch there is an entire floor (the 6th I believe) dedicated to Canadiana but finding the proper research tool is impossible. To be safe let’s say I cannot find it. The site should be better laid out to permit easy access to its research tools
At the North York Main Branch there is an entire floor (the 6th I believe) dedicated to Canadiana but finding the proper research tool is impossible. To be safe let’s say I cannot find it. The site should be better laid out to permit easy access to its research tools
Site fine, but ,as was said before, line involving your account, reserve a computer needs to be more prominent – either larger type or bolder, etc.
Site fine, but ,as was said before, line involving your account, reserve a computer needs to be more prominent – either larger type or bolder, etc.
What about a quick look feature for book searches?
What about a quick look feature for book searches?
One of the first things a library user wants to do when going to the TPL site, is log in to his or her account, so please, please, make the account sign-in at the top of the page much larger so that it is clearly visible. It would probably be a good idea to also put it front and centre on the home page. I for one, do not want to waste time looking at other information when, all I want to do is log in. A nice large 14 or 16 pt font would be great; then even seniors will be able to clearly find it.
One of the first things a library user wants to do when going to the TPL site, is log in to his or her account, so please, please, make the account sign-in at the top of the page much larger so that it is clearly visible. It would probably be a good idea to also put it front and centre on the home page. I for one, do not want to waste time looking at other information when, all I want to do is log in. A nice large 14 or 16 pt font would be great; then even seniors will be able to clearly find it.
I’m noticing some features don’t work using Opera 10.53 as a web browser. When I try to click on “renew all” radio button, it won’t highlight all the selections.
I’m also assuming that the delayed refresh rate on the beta web pages (as compared to the original site) is due to less server resources being allocated to it.
…my 2 cents worth…
I’m noticing some features don’t work using Opera 10.53 as a web browser. When I try to click on “renew all” radio button, it won’t highlight all the selections.
I’m also assuming that the delayed refresh rate on the beta web pages (as compared to the original site) is due to less server resources being allocated to it.
…my 2 cents worth…
It’s more user friendly than the previous site.
It’s more user friendly than the previous site.
Hi Paul,
We haven’t done any testing with Opera at this point. We have been focused on achieving compatibility across the browsers used by the majority of our visitors (IE 6, 7, and 8; Firefox; Safari; Chrome) – and that has been challenging enough! Also, when it comes to the account functions such as renewing books, we’re still using our library catalogue system, which is an out-of-the-box product with limited customization options.
Sorry you were experiencing slowness on the beta site. We’ve been making some configuration changes to our servers over the past week. I hope you’ll find the performance better next time you try it.
Hi Paul,
We haven’t done any testing with Opera at this point. We have been focused on achieving compatibility across the browsers used by the majority of our visitors (IE 6, 7, and 8; Firefox; Safari; Chrome) – and that has been challenging enough! Also, when it comes to the account functions such as renewing books, we’re still using our library catalogue system, which is an out-of-the-box product with limited customization options.
Sorry you were experiencing slowness on the beta site. We’ve been making some configuration changes to our servers over the past week. I hope you’ll find the performance better next time you try it.
Hi Eleanor,
The blog is set up chronologically so that unfortunately you have to scroll down past all previous comments relating to a single post. I appreciate that it can be a bit frustrating.
There actually is a link to the beta site towards the top of the current catalogue page. I hope you will have a look at the new site and continue to provide us with feedback.
As we work to transition to the new site, we are unable to continue updating the old one with all the information that we receive. We are, however, providing links from old pages to the corresponding new ones so that people do not miss out on any information. At the time you posted your comment we had not yet completed the link on the Programs page but you will see it there now.
Hi Eleanor,
The blog is set up chronologically so that unfortunately you have to scroll down past all previous comments relating to a single post. I appreciate that it can be a bit frustrating.
There actually is a link to the beta site towards the top of the current catalogue page. I hope you will have a look at the new site and continue to provide us with feedback.
As we work to transition to the new site, we are unable to continue updating the old one with all the information that we receive. We are, however, providing links from old pages to the corresponding new ones so that people do not miss out on any information. At the time you posted your comment we had not yet completed the link on the Programs page but you will see it there now.
This isn’t feedback – haven’t used the beta site yet – but it is a feature request. Having on more than one occasion requested a book I’ve already read (!) I’ve often thought it would be very helpful to be able to see my history – books that I’ve been checked out, when they were checked out, etc. Is this kind of thing feasible?
This isn’t feedback – haven’t used the beta site yet – but it is a feature request. Having on more than one occasion requested a book I’ve already read (!) I’ve often thought it would be very helpful to be able to see my history – books that I’ve been checked out, when they were checked out, etc. Is this kind of thing feasible?
The site is very good. However I am unable to login anymore as I keep getting the message that my session has expired on both the normal as well as the beta site.
The site is very good. However I am unable to login anymore as I keep getting the message that my session has expired on both the normal as well as the beta site.
Hi Dawood,
I’m not sure what the problem was with your login. If it was happening on both the old site and the beta site, it might have been a temporary glitch, or there may be an issue with your account. If you try again and find you still can’t sign in, you may want to email our Answerline department or visit your branch to have someone check your account.
Hi Dawood,
I’m not sure what the problem was with your login. If it was happening on both the old site and the beta site, it might have been a temporary glitch, or there may be an issue with your account. If you try again and find you still can’t sign in, you may want to email our Answerline department or visit your branch to have someone check your account.
Nice looking website. I didn’t know where to go to renew a book and had to click a bit to find that it was under ‘my account’. Nor could I find how to get ‘home’ until I’d done a little trial and error. Perhaps a ‘primer’ on the new website posted for a while would help. I’m thinking of school students and seniors who might find it difficult to navigate. The idea of reminders by email of books due soon is brilliant and shouldn’t be too difficult to implement (well, having some familiarity with library software, I understand if it is next to impossible or ridiculously expensive).
Nice looking website. I didn’t know where to go to renew a book and had to click a bit to find that it was under ‘my account’. Nor could I find how to get ‘home’ until I’d done a little trial and error. Perhaps a ‘primer’ on the new website posted for a while would help. I’m thinking of school students and seniors who might find it difficult to navigate. The idea of reminders by email of books due soon is brilliant and shouldn’t be too difficult to implement (well, having some familiarity with library software, I understand if it is next to impossible or ridiculously expensive).
The new Toronto Public Libraries website is seriously helping me with my web development. I am very very impressed. Love everything about it.
The new Toronto Public Libraries website is seriously helping me with my web development. I am very very impressed. Love everything about it.
Being able to create a username would be so so great. I really despise having to type in my library number everytime i want to login.
Being able to create a username would be so so great. I really despise having to type in my library number everytime i want to login.
Hi,
If you ever want to know how an amazing library website runs, go check out the Edmonton Public Library site at http://www.epl.ca. They really know how to make it easy and efficient. For example, the recently replaced the library card number with a personal ID, so you don’t need to know your number to sign in. Elegant interface and easy to use.
Hi,
If you ever want to know how an amazing library website runs, go check out the Edmonton Public Library site at http://www.epl.ca. They really know how to make it easy and efficient. For example, the recently replaced the library card number with a personal ID, so you don’t need to know your number to sign in. Elegant interface and easy to use.
A quick suggestion: Bookmarks.
I would be cool if I could bookmark my favorite book/online journal, and have a section in my profile where I can look at all my saved bookmarks.
A quick suggestion: Bookmarks.
I would be cool if I could bookmark my favorite book/online journal, and have a section in my profile where I can look at all my saved bookmarks.
it seems that every time i try to log in from my home computer there is alwaysa an error that my session has timed out, or that i’m logging in from an invalid url? why is it- to just check my account to see if i have anything late or to renew i have to go through this long and drawn out process??????
it seems that every time i try to log in from my home computer there is alwaysa an error that my session has timed out, or that i’m logging in from an invalid url? why is it- to just check my account to see if i have anything late or to renew i have to go through this long and drawn out process??????
1. The site uses a large page size and loads somewhat slowly. It could benefit from a “lighter” footprint through a combination of smaller page size, fewer linked components, less graphics, greater use of text-based menus.
2. Unsuccessful searches could be used to indicate demand for new library assets.
1. The site uses a large page size and loads somewhat slowly. It could benefit from a “lighter” footprint through a combination of smaller page size, fewer linked components, less graphics, greater use of text-based menus.
2. Unsuccessful searches could be used to indicate demand for new library assets.
For starters, I’d like to second (or third) these comments:
– Please use internation date format. Even CAnadian sites often use US format so it is hard to tell what you mean unless you use an unambiguous format such as the internation format.
– If you decide to provide mobile site don’t just give us an iPhone app. Please make it a mobile web page instead so everyone can use it.
Also, I’m at the Barbara Frum library today and the A/C is broken so they’ve closed most of the library (it is an extremely hot day). It would be great if there were a general RSS feed for status of the libraries (or something like that) so I could learn about problems like this before coming to the library.
For starters, I’d like to second (or third) these comments:
– Please use internation date format. Even CAnadian sites often use US format so it is hard to tell what you mean unless you use an unambiguous format such as the internation format.
– If you decide to provide mobile site don’t just give us an iPhone app. Please make it a mobile web page instead so everyone can use it.
Also, I’m at the Barbara Frum library today and the A/C is broken so they’ve closed most of the library (it is an extremely hot day). It would be great if there were a general RSS feed for status of the libraries (or something like that) so I could learn about problems like this before coming to the library.
Please have a feature in each branch’s “Features” section that tells us if the branch has quiet study area. Thanks
Please have a feature in each branch’s “Features” section that tells us if the branch has quiet study area. Thanks
Hi Jae,
We have identified 11 branches that offer quiet study areas, and you can use the branch map to quickly find those locations. We’re updating our branch data right now, so there might be some other locations to add. Stay tuned.
Thanks for your comment.
Hi Jae,
We have identified 11 branches that offer quiet study areas, and you can use the branch map to quickly find those locations. We’re updating our branch data right now, so there might be some other locations to add. Stay tuned.
Thanks for your comment.
Hi!
I love the improvements on the beta site, particularly the easy filtering options on the side (by Cds, music, … publication etc.) as well as an easy sorting buttons at the top. However, I am missing one thing. One of the old versions of software had an option to build the lists (“Add to your list”) I find this very, very convenient since I can make a list of books, print it out and go to the library with the already made list. Please, consider puting this feature back (or maybe it is back I just did not find it yet…) Otherwise I agree with some of the previous comments particularly voting for and suggesting new materials and option to buy old copies of past bestsellers
Hi!
I love the improvements on the beta site, particularly the easy filtering options on the side (by Cds, music, … publication etc.) as well as an easy sorting buttons at the top. However, I am missing one thing. One of the old versions of software had an option to build the lists (“Add to your list”) I find this very, very convenient since I can make a list of books, print it out and go to the library with the already made list. Please, consider puting this feature back (or maybe it is back I just did not find it yet…) Otherwise I agree with some of the previous comments particularly voting for and suggesting new materials and option to buy old copies of past bestsellers
This is definitely minor – on some pages (My Account pages for example) when you hover over ‘Advanced’ and ‘Old Catalogue’ next to the search box it causes the search box to shift back and forth. This is in Chrome 4 (haven’t checked others) on Windows XP.
This is definitely minor – on some pages (My Account pages for example) when you hover over ‘Advanced’ and ‘Old Catalogue’ next to the search box it causes the search box to shift back and forth. This is in Chrome 4 (haven’t checked others) on Windows XP.
I love the look of the new site. The format is fresh, clean, simple and bright – not too cluttered!! Initially, I was worried that I would have a problem finding my way around, but the site is really well laid out. My congratulations! I thought I might also mention that I while I was actively placing a hold, I did in fact get timed out. So, that still needs to be worked on and once I have placed a hold, I would appreciate a link to get me back to my list of search items. At present, I’m using the “back page” button and then I check my holds page to ensure that the item is on my waiting list. Otherwise, I’m enjoying the new Beta website – can’t wait to explore more.
I love the look of the new site. The format is fresh, clean, simple and bright – not too cluttered!! Initially, I was worried that I would have a problem finding my way around, but the site is really well laid out. My congratulations! I thought I might also mention that I while I was actively placing a hold, I did in fact get timed out. So, that still needs to be worked on and once I have placed a hold, I would appreciate a link to get me back to my list of search items. At present, I’m using the “back page” button and then I check my holds page to ensure that the item is on my waiting list. Otherwise, I’m enjoying the new Beta website – can’t wait to explore more.
Hi, non-fiction is coming. You will be able to access non-fiction lists on the old catalogue until they are created on the new site.
http://oldcatalogue.torontopubliclibrary.ca/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/122/2004
Hi, non-fiction is coming. You will be able to access non-fiction lists on the old catalogue until they are created on the new site.
http://oldcatalogue.torontopubliclibrary.ca/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/122/2004
Jae – I don’t know what part of the city you are in, but the Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge (just north of Bloor) should be on the list, but isn’t yet. A great place to study quietly.
Jae – I don’t know what part of the city you are in, but the Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge (just north of Bloor) should be on the list, but isn’t yet. A great place to study quietly.
Could the “Best Bets” books be allowed to float, as has been recently done for the mass market paperbacks? Most of us probably take out books close to home or work or class but we are not always there when we read, so any time saved by being able to return the book at the closest branch to where we are when we finish might allow faster circulation
Could the “Best Bets” books be allowed to float, as has been recently done for the mass market paperbacks? Most of us probably take out books close to home or work or class but we are not always there when we read, so any time saved by being able to return the book at the closest branch to where we are when we finish might allow faster circulation
The beta site is definitely easier on the eyes and less cluttered than the primary site. In general, I agree the suggestions that this can be simplified even further. The goal should be to enhance online usage for book search / ordering / renewals, and separately for advertising of events at libraries — these are the tasks. the extras, including advertising of new books avaialbe, etc, can be in a third panel. A simpler design will also translate more easily in the future to mobile-friendly sites, and that’s certainly where internet use is heading, so I hope it’s at least a consideration in TPL’s strategic plan for its website. Good luck. As I use it more, I’ll hopefully be able to give more specific areas of feedback.
The beta site is definitely easier on the eyes and less cluttered than the primary site. In general, I agree the suggestions that this can be simplified even further. The goal should be to enhance online usage for book search / ordering / renewals, and separately for advertising of events at libraries — these are the tasks. the extras, including advertising of new books avaialbe, etc, can be in a third panel. A simpler design will also translate more easily in the future to mobile-friendly sites, and that’s certainly where internet use is heading, so I hope it’s at least a consideration in TPL’s strategic plan for its website. Good luck. As I use it more, I’ll hopefully be able to give more specific areas of feedback.
Hi Webteam – much improved in looks! I have a functionality question regarding searching for format “scores” – is it part of the format “music”? I think the people looking for CDs are not necessarily the same people as those looking for scores. It would be nice to have a “SCORES” only search limit!
Hi Webteam – much improved in looks! I have a functionality question regarding searching for format “scores” – is it part of the format “music”? I think the people looking for CDs are not necessarily the same people as those looking for scores. It would be nice to have a “SCORES” only search limit!
Log-in consistently fails. Either the session times out during the log-in or “Invalid session URL received from iBistro” pops up. Is that a compatibility problem with Apple?
Log-in consistently fails. Either the session times out during the log-in or “Invalid session URL received from iBistro” pops up. Is that a compatibility problem with Apple?
Hi Andy,
Based on the time you posted your comment, I suspect you were trying to log in during our regular daily maintenance period from 6 to 6:30 a.m. We’re planning to add a message to the new website so users will know they can’t log in during the maintenance period each morning.
I hope you’ll try using the site again and let us know what you think.
Hi Andy,
Based on the time you posted your comment, I suspect you were trying to log in during our regular daily maintenance period from 6 to 6:30 a.m. We’re planning to add a message to the new website so users will know they can’t log in during the maintenance period each morning.
I hope you’ll try using the site again and let us know what you think.
Hi Dani,
You can limit your search to scores by doing the search first and then narrowing the results using the options on the left side of the screen.
– Do a search
– Select “Music” from the “Type” menu on the left
– Select “Sheet Music”
Hi Dani,
You can limit your search to scores by doing the search first and then narrowing the results using the options on the left side of the screen.
– Do a search
– Select “Music” from the “Type” menu on the left
– Select “Sheet Music”
when signing in I would like to default to my account rather than the welcome page again
Would be nice to see record of books previously borrowed as often want to re-order them
Second the option to have input on recommended purchases. Do you state anywhere on site how that is decided currently?
on new items please add category for ebooks
when signing in I would like to default to my account rather than the welcome page again
Would be nice to see record of books previously borrowed as often want to re-order them
Second the option to have input on recommended purchases. Do you state anywhere on site how that is decided currently?
on new items please add category for ebooks
New site is fine but still a bit busy (& link to account is not prominent enough given likely usage). A huge plus for the hold page would be to add author and publication date to info shown (for readers of serials). Also I would like to add my vote for a personal record of books previously borrowed and on-line capacity to recommend purchases.
New site is fine but still a bit busy (& link to account is not prominent enough given likely usage). A huge plus for the hold page would be to add author and publication date to info shown (for readers of serials). Also I would like to add my vote for a personal record of books previously borrowed and on-line capacity to recommend purchases.
New site is a bit cluttered but otherwise o.k. with an attractive colour scheme. One issue that needs to be fixed – when I was placing holds (or trying to) the system did not pop up and tell me that my card was expired. I only noticed none of my hold requests “took” when I looked at my hold list and didn’t see any of the new holds there. After looking further at my account information did I see that my card was expired. This needs to be fixed so the user is alerted right away when they try to do any hold action that their card is expired. Thanks!
New site is a bit cluttered but otherwise o.k. with an attractive colour scheme. One issue that needs to be fixed – when I was placing holds (or trying to) the system did not pop up and tell me that my card was expired. I only noticed none of my hold requests “took” when I looked at my hold list and didn’t see any of the new holds there. After looking further at my account information did I see that my card was expired. This needs to be fixed so the user is alerted right away when they try to do any hold action that their card is expired. Thanks!
I have two features that I’ve always wished the website offered:
1. History. I would like to be able to see the books I’ve borrowed in the past. It’s probably impractical to store the full history. At least a year’s worth would be nice.
2. Favourites. There’s a bunch of titles that I go back to from time to time. It would be nice to keep this list in my account. This would also be a good place to keep new items that are still not “holdable”. I guess this would be the same as the Wish List that is being worked on.
I like the redesign, by the way. You guys did a fine job!
I have two features that I’ve always wished the website offered:
1. History. I would like to be able to see the books I’ve borrowed in the past. It’s probably impractical to store the full history. At least a year’s worth would be nice.
2. Favourites. There’s a bunch of titles that I go back to from time to time. It would be nice to keep this list in my account. This would also be a good place to keep new items that are still not “holdable”. I guess this would be the same as the Wish List that is being worked on.
I like the redesign, by the way. You guys did a fine job!
good design but i liked the old catalogue searching better. especially when you could search by publisher.
good design but i liked the old catalogue searching better. especially when you could search by publisher.
WHAT??? this new website is soooo confusing. how do i find books by the author??
help!
Incorporate the old way into the new web page.
Thank you
WHAT??? this new website is soooo confusing. how do i find books by the author??
help!
Incorporate the old way into the new web page.
Thank you
Could i please search items by library/ instead of going in person to the library and searching the shelves , I would like to search the shelves “on line”. The times i go to the library can be busy/crowded. people are moving past me or i have to constantly move out of the way. It is hard to concentrate on the books i am trying to find.
For example the dvd cases on the shelves are so small to read, it is easy to overlook the ones i want because of the small print.
Or i could search items in the” nearest to me library” or “not so near” depending on how much time i have to get there and back.
Could i please search items by library/ instead of going in person to the library and searching the shelves , I would like to search the shelves “on line”. The times i go to the library can be busy/crowded. people are moving past me or i have to constantly move out of the way. It is hard to concentrate on the books i am trying to find.
For example the dvd cases on the shelves are so small to read, it is easy to overlook the ones i want because of the small print.
Or i could search items in the” nearest to me library” or “not so near” depending on how much time i have to get there and back.
Don’t most Canadians use the European DD-MM-YY format? Just so long as the U.S. format M (or MM)-D (or DD)-YY is avoided like the plague.
The metric-associated format YYYY-MM-DD is fine and really clear.
Don’t most Canadians use the European DD-MM-YY format? Just so long as the U.S. format M (or MM)-D (or DD)-YY is avoided like the plague.
The metric-associated format YYYY-MM-DD is fine and really clear.
RSS feeds for new titles lists: New titles lists are constantly changing, so this is a great way to keep up to date.
RSS feeds for new titles lists: New titles lists are constantly changing, so this is a great way to keep up to date.