Polaris is the software (also known as an ILS, or Integrated Library System) all TRAC libraries use.Every item in TRAC is catalogued in Polaris. Libraries use Polaris to lend out items and keep track of patrons. Patrons search the shared collection using TRACpac online.
The tutorials on our website to help you learn Polaris include learning how to log in and log off, search, check books out to patrons and check them back in, and searching and finding items in the catalogue. You can find these tutorials on the Basic Polaris Procedures page.
Because all libraries within TRAC all share the Polaris software, we have some TRAC Operational Guidelines that we adhere to. You can find them at the TRAC Procedures page, and if you have any questions, ask your consultant.
When Polaris is unavailable, possibly due to network issues, scheduled downtime, or upgrades, the offline circulation form is a method of still checking out items to patrons.
Offline circulation requires the downloading and installation of two fonts:
CodabarLarge
CodabarMedium
Download the files to your computer. Once downloaded, right-click on the file and choose Install.
These fonts need to be installed in order for the Excel Spreadsheet to work properly.
You will need to download the Excel Spreadsheet and save it to your computer as well.
The How to Use the Offline Circulation Form help document will walk you through how the form works.
There are times when you need to connect to Polaris via Remote Desktop (RDP).
Please note that the process for connecting via RDP has changed effective January 18, 2016. Any previously setup connections to Polaris will not work.
The document walks you through connecting to Polaris via RDP.
While logging in, you may be asked if you really want to connect to this computer. If you see this pop-up, click yes. This question is normal and you are okay to click yes and proceed with the connection.