MiLE - Michigan Library Exchange

[May 17, 2002]
Patrons from libraries within DALNET, OWLS and Suburban Library Cooperative (SLC) libraries are enthusiastically responding to MiLE's Virtual Union Catalog and patron book request system. The project was developed to share resources among libraries of all types in southeastern Michigan, provide a faster and more efficient way to share holdings and availability information and to develop a prototype system testing Z39.50 links, and van delivery services.

Through this consortia agreement, this patron-initiated service will be available to over 51% of the total population of the state of Michigan. The MiLE Project is funded by LSTA sub-grants received from the Library of Michigan during FY 2001-02 and FY 2002-03. These funds cover start-up costs, membership expansion, van pick- up/deliveries, software and hardware upgrades. TLN (The Library Network) is the fiscal agent for the grants and the host site for the servers.

It has taken many hours of planning and coordination to make MiLE the success we all knew it would be. DALNET members and staff have participated continuously since the beginning. Implementation for DALNET members has been schedules in 4 phases. Currently, phase 3 libraries are planning to go live by the end of June. For a more detailed review of the complete implementation process visit the MiLE project website. Staff and manager training materials have been posted on the DALNET website.

For your reading needs:

• The MiLE catalog is available 24 hours a day from your home, office or the library
• Get books delivered in 4 to 5 business days
• Receive instant e-mail notices when their books are ready for pickup
• Know immediately if the requested item is available from another MiLE library

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