As part of the National Institute of Education (NIE) Library’s LIBRIS strategic plan to meet the challenges of the 21^st century, we launched BookMyne, an iPhone app that allows you to access our OPAC system, on 9 March 2011.  With the pervasive adoption of the iPhone within the NIE community and the world, BookMyne is a timely and relevant tool to locate library resources and information more quickly and conveniently.

The app was created by SirsiDynix, a software provider for libraries. At first launch, it uses your iPhone’s GPS to locate nearby libraries. Then it shows you (via Google Maps) registered libraries nearby or (if you have already set up your app) your preferred libraries. After setting up your account with your user id and pin number, you can log into your account and search for books, save and/or email search results, and place holds on books of interest. You can also see what you have checked out, when they are due and renew them. BookMyne’s latest version also enables you to scan the barcode of a book at a bookstore or friend’s home and retrieve availability information on the book at your library of choice. Most importantly, navigation is now a breeze with the iPhone’s intuitive and easy-to-use interface.

We have received several compliments regarding BookMyne since the launch; there were also enquiries as to how to download the app. You can download the new BookMyne app free at Apple’s App Store now by keying in ‘BookMyne’ in the search box. It’s that easy!

Please note: Libraries need to be running SirsiDynix’s Symphony library management system software and Web Services 3.0 before their users can use BookMyne to search the OPAC. We have also prepared a guide which covers installation, navigation and troubleshooting.

Contributed by NIE Library and Information Services Centre (LIBRIS)