100,000 SMS Notices sent
Over 100,000 SMS text notices sent in 2009
The SMS application for use with Horizon has been installed in 10 sites in 2009 with several more lined up to be installed in 2010. The response has been fantastic: libraries using the service have sent over 100,000 library notices by text in 2009. Libraries are not only saving a huge amount of money compared with printed notices, but are also saving a lot of staff time. Feedback suggests that library members are more responsive to a text notice than a printed equivalent and are returning books more promptly. The immediate nature of the text also helps the turnaround for requests as borrowers are notified within a couple of hours that their book is on hold and awaiting collection.
Library members are enthusiastic about the service which is seen as a modern way for libraries to communicate with their users.
Some libraries are also using the service to contact groups of users for library events and book clubs.