Evergreen is a new catalog system that all Traverse Area District Library locations (Woodmere, East Bay, Kingsley, Fife Lake, Interlochen and Peninsula) are now using as of Monday, November 10, 2008.

The Traverse Area District Library is partnering with the Michigan Library Consortium to be one of the first District Libraries in Michigan to switch to the new open source Evergreen Library System.

Part of the new Evergreen system is of course the Online Catalog (or OPAC.)

For your convenience, we've prepared an introductory screencast to provide you with an overview of Evergreen's online catalog, as well as some tips on how to log in to the new catalog system.

 After reviewing this information, if you are still experiencing issues, please call TADL's Technology group at (231) 932-8506.

Great new Evergreen features include:
Frequently Asked Questions for Patrons



What is Evergreen?
Evergreen is an open source catalog system, which means that there is no charge to the Traverse Area District Library to download and use the software. It was originally developed for and is in use at 275 libraries in Georgia. Traverse Area District Library patrons will use Evergreen to access the card catalog and their account. Evergreen will also be used when a patron checks out material from the Library.
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Why is the Traverse Area District Library switching to Evergreen?
The Traverse Area District Library is partnering with the Michigan Library Consortium to be one of the first District Libraries in Michigan to switch to the new open source Evergreen Library System. We are switching to Evergreen because in the long run it will result in cost savings and will better meet our patrons' future needs.
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What are some of the new features of Evergreen?
Many features are familiar to those who regularly use the Internet. For example, when you search for something but have accidentally misspelled a word, the system will offer alternatives to your search.

You can also create Virtual Book Bags that you can share with others. So a teacher could create a class reading list and share it with her students. You can keep a book bag of books you would like to read . . . or keep a book bag of your favorite gardening books.

Evergreen features grouping formats and editions, which allow you to easily find a title, in any format or edition we have. No more waiting for a book just because you only found the first edition when we have four other copies of the third! . . . or maybe you don't mind the large print version that is on the shelf. Holds (reserves) will work the same way--you can select what types of items can fill your request--any edition, large print, audio book, movie, etc.

Shelf Browser is a feature that allows you to quickly see what else is shelved near items in your search. Maybe you'll find something else that interests you--or see that we own it, but it is out--and place a hold on it.
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Is TADL the only library in Michigan switching to Evergreen?
The Traverse Area District Library is currently working with the Michigan Library Consortium and three other libraries--Grand Rapids, Branch and Niles--to move our catalogs to Evergreen. We are the fourth Michigan Library to come onboard.
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Will I still be able to get materials from other TADL Libraries and through Interlibrary Loan?
Yes. You can use your library card or Michigan driver's license or Michigan ID to check out materials at any TADL library. We strongly recommend that you return the items to the same location you checked them out from. If you return materials to another TADL library than the one you borrowed it from, it will take approximately 5-10 days to get to its home library. Interlibrary loan requests from other libraries for things we don't have in our system will still be available and any items you now have an interlibrary loan request for will be filled.
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Will I still be able to place holds (reserves)?
Yes. For more information about holds please visit this page.
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Will there be someone available to help me if I need it?
Of course. Staff will make sure that all patron concerns and problems are answered quickly.
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Will I still be able to access my account information online?
Yes. You will notice some enhanced features with your account information, including being able to select the number of search results per page, choose how you want to be notified for each hold, and update your own email address if it changes. You will also have the ability to freeze a hold if you will be on vacation or unavailable for a period of time, but still keep your place in line for the hold. Another new feature is creating a user name for your account so you won't have to enter you library card number each time you access it. If you are having any problems at all logging into the Online Catalog, please read this first.
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How will I be notified of overdue items or holds (reserves) that are ready for pickup?
You can be notified by e-mail or phone.
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How do I renew my library materials?
You can renew any TADL material online, by telephone or in person.
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Will the same loan and fine policies be in effect with the new system?
We will be modifying some of our loan and fine policies to better fit the new system. For more information about these changes you may inquire at the Circulation Desk after November 10.
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