Automated Library Card Renewal Without Losing Control
Libraries are continually being asked to do more with fewer resources. Staff time is valuable, patron expectations continue to grow, and routine account maintenance can consume hours that could be spent delivering services, programming, and support. One area where many libraries see immediate benefits is borrower registration and library card renewal. The Challenge and the … Continue reading “Automated Library Card Renewal Without Losing Control”
When demand is high, every library item matters
Library material recovery matters more when demand is high. In many communities, collections are feeling the pressure from growing usage, long hold lists, and rising digital content costs. A recent Carolina Public Press article highlighted long waitlists for popular titles across North Carolina libraries, particularly for e-books and audiobooks. Wake County Public Libraries reported digital … Continue reading “When demand is high, every library item matters”
Card Registration Tools: Where they Fall Short
In last month’s patron registration webinar survey, we asked attendees three simple questions: Does your library offer self-service library card registration? If yes, does your system offer real-time address verification? How many phone calls per week does your library receive regarding library card renewals? The results revealed a significant gap between offering online registration and … Continue reading “Card Registration Tools: Where they Fall Short”
3 Must-Try Library Card Signup Ideas
September is a season of fresh starts. Students are settling into new routines, football is back, and the first hints of fall are beginning to appear. For libraries, it also marks one of the most important annual celebrations: Library Card Signup Month. This year, we looked beyond the usual promotional resources and explored new ways … Continue reading “3 Must-Try Library Card Signup Ideas”
Unique Announces New Library Service Launches for Q2
Over a dozen libraries have launched MessageBee, Automated Borrower Renewal (uRenew), Verified Borrower Registration (uRegister), and Patron Services in the second quarter of 2026 Verified Borrower Registration Elk Grove Village Public Library in Elk Grove Village, Illinois launched Automated Borrower Registration. This service allows patrons to register for library cards online, streamlining the process while … Continue reading “Unique Announces New Library Service Launches for Q2”
Is your library paying attention to the entire patron life cycle, or just parts of it?
Is your library paying attention to the entire patron life cycle, or just parts of it? Libraries spend significant time and resources on patrons. But where does that attention go? What happens if libraries ignore parts of the patron cycle? The patron experience does not begin and end with a library card. It is shaped … Continue reading “Is your library paying attention to the entire patron life cycle, or just parts of it?”
Who Are Virtual Patrons?
As libraries expand beyond physical buildings, the concept of the “patron” has evolved. Increasingly, libraries serve users who may never walk through the front door yet rely heavily on library services. These individuals are commonly referred to as virtual patrons—and understanding who they are is essential for designing effective, inclusive library services. Defining the Virtual … Continue reading “Who Are Virtual Patrons?”
Automatically Renew and Register Patron Cards: How Unique’s Secure and Automated System Stacks Up
Libraries need borrower systems that reduce workload, protect access, and remain predictable over time. While many vendors offer online renewal or registration tools, most only partially automate the process. Unique stands apart because it delivers true end‑to‑end automation—and pairs it with clear communication for patrons and staff alike. Our new Automated Borrower Renewal and Verified … Continue reading “Automatically Renew and Register Patron Cards: How Unique’s Secure and Automated System Stacks Up”
Register new patrons online with uRegister: How it works and what it means
As part of Unique’s commitment to create tools that make libraries the best that they can be, we developed Verified Borrower Registration (uRegister), an automatic registration platform for libraries. It allows patrons to register for cards online and removes the need for manual address verifications for card registrations and renewals. It harnesses technology to make … Continue reading “Register new patrons online with uRegister: How it works and what it means “
Maintaining an Accurate Patron Database: A Guide for Libraries
Maintaining an Accurate Patron Database How long are your library cards valid? Many libraries set card expirations based on the assumption that patrons will remain at the same address for several years. Unfortunately, life changes faster than library card policies. People move, change contact information, and transition between service areas, often without updating their records. … Continue reading “Maintaining an Accurate Patron Database: A Guide for Libraries”
