In 2025, Polaris delivered a strong set of enhancements designed to support the evolving needs of public libraries. With expanded web-based administration, smarter workflows, and improved operational visibility, this year’s updates reflect a continued commitment to making library systems easier to manage and more responsive to how libraries work today.
With the most recent Polaris release, libraries can now manage key staff and administrative workflows entirely through a browser – removing dependence on desktop tools and giving teams more flexibility in how they work. These updates build on Polaris’s long-standing strengths while continuing to modernize the platform based on library feedback and real-world use.
Key Polaris Features in 2025
Fully Web-Based System Administration
Polaris continued its transition to a fully web-based platform throughout 2025, enabling libraries to manage a wide range of staff and administrative workflows directly through a browser. This includes configuration and daily operations across circulation, cataloging, patron services, notices, requests, self-service, and system administration.
By expanding web-based access across the platform, Polaris reduced reliance on desktop tools, simplified system management, and made it easier for staff and administrators to work efficiently across branches and service points.
Bulk Updates for Configuration Tables
Managing change at scale is a reality for many libraries. Polaris now includes bulk-update functionality for select configuration tables, allowing staff to make consistent updates more quickly—without repetitive manual edits.
This is especially valuable for multi-branch libraries and consortia that need to apply changes across multiple locations.
Web Access to Logs and Job Status (Read-Only)
Polaris provides read-only web access to operational log files and SQL job status information. This gives administrators better visibility into system activity and troubleshooting tools without requiring direct database access.
The result is faster issue identification and improved operational awareness.
Expanded Technical Services Tools
Throughout 2025, Polaris continued to move more technical services workflows into the browser-based staff experience, reducing reliance on desktop tools and simplifying complex processes. Enhancements introduced across the year support a wide range of cataloging, acquisitions, and record management tasks, including:
- Bibliographic record template management and import profile management
- Authority control tools, including an Authority Headings Assistant
- Expanded duplicate detection options for purchase orders and authority records
- Additional linking between acquisitions records to improve visibility and accuracy
- Ad-hoc MARC exports and automatic import of MARC records from third-party vendors
- Streamlined fiscal year rollover processing
- Faster, direct-to-printer label printing
- Improved EDI workflows, including a dedicated workform for processing EDI invoices
Together, these updates help technical services staff complete high-volume and detail-oriented work more efficiently, while maintaining consistency, accuracy, and control across collections and systems.
Improved Patron Data Management
Throughout 2025, Polaris introduced enhancements that give libraries better structure and oversight for managing patron data at scale. New configuration options support date-stamped patron notes and automated patron code aging, helping staff maintain accurate and up-to-date records over time.
Polaris also expanded support for bulk patron imports, allowing libraries to efficiently add or update large groups of users, such as students or seasonal patrons – through streamlined import workflows.
Together, these improvements reduce manual data entry, help prevent errors, and make it easier to manage high volumes of patron records across library systems.
Designed for Multi-Branch and Consortium Environments
Polaris continues to support libraries operating across multiple branches or within consortia. Centralized administration can be combined with local flexibility, allowing libraries to manage shared policies while accommodating branch-level or member-specific needs.
This balance supports consistency without limiting local decision-making.
Why These Updates Matter
Together, these enhancements reflect a broader shift in Polaris toward simpler access, clearer workflows, and reduced system friction. By bringing more staff and administrative work into the web, Polaris helps libraries:
- Spend less time managing software and infrastructure
- Apply changes more efficiently across locations
- Improve visibility into system operations
- Support flexible service models for staff and patrons
Just as importantly, Polaris continues to evolve through regular updates informed by library feedback—ensuring the platform adapts as services, collections, and community expectations change.
Join the Polaris Webinar
We will be hosting a feature-review webinar to walk through the latest Polaris release and demonstrate key workflows.
The session will cover key updates, demonstrate workflows, and provide time for questions.
January 15, 2026 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm EST
Recent Polaris Momentum
Polaris continues to be recognized by libraries for its focus on usability, flexibility, and responsiveness to real-world needs. Ongoing enhancements—shaped by library input—reinforce Polaris’s role as a practical, evolving platform for public libraries.
Libraries evaluating system upgrades or looking to modernize operations can explore how Polaris fits within their broader technology environment.
Learn More About Polaris
For detailed documentation and guidance, visit the Polaris Documentation Portal and LibGuides.
To see how Polaris could support your library’s goals, you can also request a demo and speak with a Polaris expert or submit a ticket through the Support center.