We are thrilled to announce the launch of the updated SU Libraries’ Materials Request System (MaRS), a web app developed fully in-house through collaboration between our Technology Librarian, Research and Instruction Librarians, and library acquisitions staff. Originally introduced in 2017, MaRS is an essential tool that allows library staff to track material requests and monitor purchasing budgets for over 40 departments. This system enables our librarians and library staff to process orders seamlessly while providing faculty with valuable insight into the library’s material purchasing workflows.
This fall, the SU Libraries debuted a revamped version of MaRS, designed with enhanced functionality and a mobile-friendly interface, making it even easier for liaisons and faculty to submit requests and stay updated. Requests can now be submitted and tracked on the go via a mobile device, with a refreshed interface that streamlines workflows. Additionally, book covers from Google Books and video covers from The Movie Database (TMDB) have been incorporated, making it simpler to locate and identify items within various purchasing systems.
One of the most exciting updates is the new self-registration feature for faculty accounts. Previously, faculty relied on their library liaison to create accounts on their behalf; now, they can register independently, reducing setup time and enabling them to access MaRS directly. Faculty with the appropriate permissions can also view their department’s latest budget usage, submit new requests to their liaison and see submissions from colleagues within their department.
Moreover, the new version of MaRS integrates seamlessly with our recently implemented library system, Alma. Daily, automatic budget syncing through Alma has replaced manual data imports, providing faculty and librarians with up-to-date budget information without additional staff involvement.
With these improvements, we anticipate a smoother experience for everyone involved in requesting, ordering and managing materials. We are proud to offer a more efficient, user-friendly system that allows faculty, staff and librarians alike to focus on what they do best: enhancing education through access to knowledge.
