Merging into the Largest Inter-Library Lending Consortium

Big News! The Morgantown Public Library System is merging into the state’s newest and largest inter-library lending consortium–the West Virginia Library Network (WVLN). This transition will bring many far-reaching benefits for our community.

Currently, our library is part of the Northern Library Network (NLN), which comprises 46 libraries in the state. This merger brings together our library consortium (NLN) and the Mountain Library Network, which comprises 68 libraries. After the merger, you will have access to 109 libraries–that is almost a three-fold increase in your access to other libraries across the state and thus an increase in the variety of materials you can borrow.

Not only will you be able to borrow more books through the InterLibrary Loan system, but you will be able to use your card at any of the libraries in the consortium. WVLN will even include five academic libraries and the West Virginia Library Commission.

“The merger began as a way to provide more purchasing power for the libraries,” according to Ann Farr, WVLN Board President. Furthermore, “… it was determined that by merging it would save us in our automation expenses, nurture continued cost sharing resources and accessibility, promote unity and shared resources within the collection of all 70+/- libraries, and further connect the majority of libraries in WV,” says Alexandra Schneider, WVLN Board Member.

This transition is an enormous logistical undertaking that will require months of adjustments and possible service interruptions. We’ve provided important dates that will help you better understand the transition process:

TIMELINE

Mon, December 7th: Sarah Palfrey, library director, will be on Facebook Live on Monday, December 7th at 1:00pm to answer your questions and tell you more about this transition and how our community will benefit.

All reading history data through our online catalog will be deleted today. You can 1) download your reading history (see instructions below), or 2) start a Beanstack Account, the library’s preferred reading log application on your phone or computer: https://mympls.beanstack.org/reader365

Download Your Reading Log:

Mon, December 7th – Wed, December 9th: You may experience major service interruptions where you will not be able to 1) apply for new cards, 2) place holds on books, or 3) access the catalog or digital library.

Wed, December 9th: All Morgantown Public Library buildings will be closed to the public as the catalog officially merges. Staff will still be available to answer any questions at askmympls@gmail.com or 304-291-7425.

Thurs, December 10th: For the next several months, you may experience service interruptions that can affect placing holds on books. If you experience any difficulties placing holds on books please email us at askmympls@gmail.com or call the reference desk at 304-291-7425 for help.

While this merger means a better and larger library collection, we understand that the transition may cause some inconvenience. Please email us at askmympls@gmail.com or call us at 304-291-7425 for any help. We hope you are as excited as we are about this!