Alexandria

Alexandria for K-12 Schools __Cost of the System __ I could not find a particular price on the website. The reason being that the cost of the system varies depending on the amount of users. This would be different for school districts of different sizes, the number of buildings within the district, and the options the school chooses with the program. The makers of the product want to be contacted directly in order to get a free estimate. No matter the cost, fortunately there is a one-time upgrade fee in the installation which makes all of the upgrades “free.”

__Is the system downloaded or installed? __ One of the more appealing features of this system is that it can be installed over the web. You will need to have obtained the IP address of the computer you wish to have it installed on. The following link will show download instructions for Alexandria : [|http://www.goalexandria.com/support/FAQ/faq_alex6.html#Anchor-How-23240] This process can be used with either a CD-ROM or activation code online. The updates are available online and are part of the original purchase, with the special fee mentioned earlier. There is also a way to solve it using different steps on the Client Applications menu and the Support folder online.

__Features __ There are many features of the Alexandria System. One of the main features that are helpful for librarians would be the Lexile levels. It would help a librarian have information immediately when checking books out. It would make it easier for to suggest books to students and also help them make appropriate picks. The system also gives a visual of the book that a student has checked out. This could be help if the student misplaces a book, as students usually do. This system is also accessible through iPhone, iPod, or iPad. This kind of support allows the librarian to access the system while circulating throughout the actual library. Instead of being restricted to looking up information, or books at a desk the librarian is able to move. A list of other features:
 * 24/7 tech support
 * Alexandria has the ability to work online and offline
 * Reports and utilities can be set up to run as librarians circulate
 * There is web access for library staff and students
 * Automatic e-mail notification for books
 * <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">MARC cataloging
 * <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Reading performance reports
 * <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Supports Accelerated Readers
 * <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">SIF Certified
 * <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">For a more in depth look at features you can visit: <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">[]

__<span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Unique Features: __ <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Alexandria allows for people to access their information on a cloud. The feature is called **COMPanion**. This allows for a librarian to back up their data, as well as handle the update and upgrades. This feature also allows for the librarian to access the catalog anywhere over the internet allowing for the teacher to go beyond the classroom. It also limits the purchase of updates and upgrades that will now automatically be maintained. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Another unique feature would be **Alexandria Controller/MDS (Multi Data Station)**. This allows each library to have its very own database but they are all managed by the Controller. This allows for each system to be updated and backed up all at one location. The central hub allows for each station to be its own entity, yet be controlled and monitored by the main base. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">The system also allows for the students to manage their own accounts. They are able to input reviews and post them to the system. Students can interact and suggest books to others through this medium. It also allows them to see the Lexile scores on their page and evaluate how they are performing. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">The website offers a variety of tools to help implement the system. They offer barcode/circulation readers. They are pricey however. The system also comes with printer suggestions. The can print barcode labels and also allow for the printing of a receipt and librarians do not have to stamp the book.

__<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Would I Suggest this System? __ <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">I would recommend this system. The main reason for that is the one time update charge. Getting a charge like that out of the way could be easier and more affordable. I also think having one central controlling hub would be fantastic. While every library accesses and operates on their own the main hub controls all updates. This will allow for autonomy in the district. I also think that the many ways to access the system are beneficial. This will allow for anyone who needs to access the system whenever they need.

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