For immediate release
April 21, 2025
Media contact: Annice Sevett, director of the Albert Lea Public Library, at 507-377-4355, or [email protected]

Albert Lea Public Library upgrading software system, will be closed April 29 – 30

The Albert Lea Public Library, 211 E. Clark St., is upgrading its catalog and online system to improve access to the library’s collection, expand search capabilities, and enhance the library experience both online and in-person. In preparation, the library will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday, April 29-30, and will reopen with the new system on Thursday, May 1.

The library is part of a regional system called SELCO (Southeastern Libraries Cooperating), which has been using the current software for patron management services since the early 2000s. This software is critical to library operations, from ordering items for the collection, communicating with patrons, and reporting on usage of library services. The system is outdated and no longer meets the needs of the region.

In 2024, SELCO, with input from member libraries, agreed to migrate to a new software system. The new software system has advanced features that will improve the experience of using the library for both community members and staff.

The online catalog interface will change to a new, modern catalog with enhanced searching capabilities, providing increased access to collections. The new catalog will have the same functions as the current one, including requesting items from SELCO libraries and viewing library account information.

In preparation for this change, some library services will be unavailable for a short period of time.

From Sunday, April 27, after 5 p.m., to Thursday, May 1, the library will not:

  • Issue new cards.
  • Accept new hold requests for items.
  • Make changes to patron accounts, including renewing items and updating card expiration dates.
  • Check in items. Patrons should return checked-out items after May 1.

In addition, the online catalog and SELCO Libraries app will be unavailable. The library will fulfill holds placed before April 28.

On Monday, April 28, the library will be open normal hours, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., with limited functionality:

  • Items can be checked out that are available in the library or on the holds shelf.
  • Public computers, Wi-Fi, printing and copy services will be available. 

The library will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday, April 29 – 30, and will reopen on Thursday, May 1, at 9 a.m. with the new system.

The Albert Lea Public Library will update all links on its website when the new system is live. Patrons may need to update their browser and device links. Instructions on how to do this will be provided once the library has the new link.

Hoopla and Libby will not be impacted by the software migration. 

For more information, call the library at 507-377-4350 or visit the library’s website at https://alplonline.org/softwaremigration/.

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Mission statement: The Albert Lea Public Library is working to connect you with the books you want, the information you need, and the community you live in.