Library News

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources is excited to introduce a major library software upgrade that will improve the way you search, explore, and enjoy our library services. Launching on May 8, the new catalog delivers streamlined experience, enhanced features, and improved access across all devices. This upgrade is designed to make using the library more convenient, personalized, and enjoyable than ever before.

Actualización Base de Datos del Sistema Bibliotecario (PFs en espanol)

We appreciate your patience and support during this transition to our new library software and catalog.

Some library services and catalog features may continue to be unavailable as we integrate them with the new library software. For example, our online library card application is currently not available. Please visit one of our libraries to apply for a library card.

Library PIN Information

All current PINs will automatically be updated to the last four digits of your library card number. You can log in using that PIN and choose to change it at any time. Steps to reset the PIN are available in this FAQ: I don't know my PIN/Password or I want to reset it - help!

• Login to the new library catalog! 
  • How do I sign in to my library card account?
  • See all FAQs for the library catalog. 
• CloudLibrary now requires a PIN. It may be helpful to uninstall and reinstall the CloudLibrary app to sign in with the PIN.
• hoopla accounts may also need to update the PIN. Steps to update the PIN are available in this FAQ: Having Trouble Logging onto Hoopla - receiving "Yikes!" message

Reading History and Lists

Your reading history is available now in My Bookmarks of the library catalog. This FAQ provides more information about reading history in the new catalog: How do I keep track of books I've read and see a history of items I've checked out?

Saved Lists will soon be moved to the new catalog, and you can save items to your catalog's bookmarks and organize them into lists. This FAQ provides more information: Am I able to create a Wish List of books I'd like to read in My Account? 

Saved searches in the previous catalog will not be moved to the new catalog. This FAQ provides steps to create and modify saved searches: How do I create, edit, or delete a saved search?

Get Ready for a Better Library Experience

This new library catalog is designed to make your experience with Sarasota County Libraries faster, easier, and more tailored to your needs.

Whether you’re searching for a specific title, browsing recommendations, managing your child’s reading levels, or exploring your favorite author’s works, the upgraded library catalog puts everything at your fingertips.

All Formats in One Place

With the new library catalog, finding the materials you want is simple. When you search for a title, you’ll see all available formats listed together—including regular print, large print, audiobooks, and eBooks. You’ll also be able to view which Sarasota County Library locations have the title on the shelf, giving you the option to visit another branch if you don’t want to wait for a transfer to your home location.

Series Information and Cover Art

Books that are part of a series will now display cover art and a complete list of titles in the series. This helps readers easily track the reading order or discover additional installments. Whether you're starting a new series or looking for the next book, the updated catalog makes it easy to follow along.

Custom Reading Recommendations

The upgraded catalog introduces personalized reading recommendations based on your search history and the titles you're viewing. These suggestions are tailored to your interests, helping you discover books you're more likely to enjoy. It’s a smarter, more intuitive way to find your next great read.

Explore Author Pages

If you’re a fan of a particular author, the new catalog features dedicated author pages where you can view all their available titles. These pages include all formats—print, large print, audiobooks, and eBooks—so you can explore everything they’ve written in one convenient location.

Improved Search for Children's Books

The new library catalog includes tools to help families and educators find books that are right for children at various reading levels. You can search using grade level, Lexile Measure, or Accelerated Reader (AR) score. There’s also a feature that allows you to select a range, offering greater flexibility when choosing books that will challenge and engage young readers.