Re: [IUG] Patron information, Patron API, and Library Elf

[Elizabeth Thomsen <et at noblenet dot org>]

Library Elf doesn't require the Patron API -- it's screen-scraping.  It 
requires no set-up from the library system.  When I first heard about 
Library Elf, I was surprised to discover my own library system was 
listed.  No one consulted us, because no one needed to.  A library 
patron provides the Library Elf system with the login and password 
information for one or more library accounts on various systems, and the 
Library Elf system logs into those accounts on the patron's behalf, 
gathers the information, and arranges it according to the patron's wishes.

It's a pretty great system from a user's perspective -- I like the fact 
that it allows users to combine information about accounts on different 
systems, and lets the user configure their own notice schedule and 
method of delivery.

When Library Elf first came out, there were lots of concerns about 
system security, patron privacy, etc., and I wish we could run this 
software on our own server so we could control those things.  Truth is, 
though, we know a lot of our users (including many librarians) are very 
happy using Library Elf, and we have nothing at all that can compare to 
the flexibility and convenience of that system.

Wynn, Stephen wrote:
> Does Library Elf require the Patron API product?
>
> We are installing an open-source next-generation catalog, and would like
> to offer "My account" features such as placing holds, and viewing
> currently-charged books with due dates, etc.  My best guess is that we
> need Patron API to make these services available in the new catalog.
>
> However, I know that Library Elf is able to access data from patron
> accounts.  Does it do this through Patron API, or is there another way
> to access this information?
>
> Stephen Wynn
> Head of Technical Services and Systems
> Pickler Memorial Library
> Truman State University
> Kirksville, MO 63501
> (660) 785-4535 
>
>
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--
Elizabeth Thomsen, Member Services Manager
NOBLE: North of Boston Library Exchange
26 Cherry Hill Drive
Danvers MA 01923
Blog: http://www.noblenet.org/ethomsen/
E-mail: et at noblenet dot org