Patrons rarely think about the technology powering their library experience, but they notice when moving between the catalog, website, events, communications, and digital services feels effortless. Creating that kind of consistency often requires more than introducing new tools. It requires connecting different systems in ways that reduce complexity for staff while making library services easier to discover and use.
In our latest case study, RHPL shares how it brought together Polaris, Vega LX, cloud infrastructure, AI-powered tools, and a security-first strategy to create a modern library experience for both staff and patrons.
Moving beyond fragmented systems
For many libraries, digital services evolve over time. New tools are added to solve new challenges, but the result can be a patchwork of systems that don’t always work well together. Rochester Hills Public Library set out to create something different: a unified ecosystem that could support discovery, engagement, communications, and operations through a seamless experience.
Rochester Hills Public Library’s experience offers a practical look at what can happen when the library is focused on creating a connected ecosystem where systems work together, information flows more easily, and innovation can happen without disrupting day-to-day operations. The foundation included Polaris as the library’s operational backbone, Vega LX modules for patron engagement and discovery, and a cloud-first infrastructure designed for scalability and security.
Turning discovery into an experience
A catalog is often one of the most visible ways patrons interact with a library. Rochester Hills Public Library wanted discovery to do more than help users find materials. Using Vega Discover, the library was able to build experiences tailored to its community, including a dedicated Kids Catalog designed to support youth engagement and early literacy. The library also explored creative ways to highlight non-traditional collections and local resources through curated discovery experiences. The library continues to evolve the experience based on how people actually use it.
Giving staff new ways to work
Rochester Hills Public Library isn’t limited to patron-facing services when it comes to innovation. The library has invested heavily in practical tools that help staff access information more quickly and reduce reliance on manual processes. One example is the development of a secure local AI environment designed to provide instant access to internal policies, procedures, and documentation. The library is also using AI to simplify complex tasks, including helping staff work with Polaris data and SQL queries. Derek Brown, IT Director at Rochester Hills Public Library, explains: “We’re building applications using AI coding agents, even inside Vega LX.”
These projects demonstrate how libraries can use emerging technologies to solve real operational challenges and make specialized knowledge more accessible across the organization.
Why security became a strategic priority
Technology transformation is more than just improving experiences and workflows. It is also about protecting the systems and data libraries depend on every day. Rochester Hills Public Library adopted a long-term security strategy that included moving to hosted infrastructure, implementing identity protection measures, and embracing a cloud-first approach. According to Brown: “Moving to hosted infrastructure helped with uptime, security, and protecting patron data.”
For libraries evaluating their own modernization efforts, Rochester Hills Public Library’s experience highlights the importance of building security and resilience into the foundation of every technology decision.
The value of a true partnership
Whether it’s implementing new solutions, testing new ideas, or developing custom capabilities, the library emphasizes the importance of working closely with teams that understand both the technology and the library’s goals. Brown points to the implementation of Vega Interact as an example: “The Vega Interact implementation was one of the easiest launches we’ve ever done. We went from build to testing to deployment in 48 hours.”
That responsiveness has enabled the library to adopt new capabilities quickly, experiment with new approaches, and continuously improve services without creating disruption for staff or patrons.
Read the full case study
By connecting Polaris, Vega LX, cloud infrastructure, and staff-driven innovation, the library has created a more consistent patron experience, streamlined internal workflows, strengthened security, and established a foundation for future growth.
Download the case study to see how Rochester Hills Public Library is building a connected, future-ready library environment where innovation and everyday operations work hand in hand.