Polaris Leap Overview

The Polaris web application, Leap, provides library staff with a simple, streamlined user interface for performing common circulation, patron services, and cataloging functions. Leap is optimized for use with a modern web browser operating on a desktop computer, but Leap can also be used on an internet-connected mobile device, such as an iPad® or SurfaceTM tablet. Librarians can use Leap to extend library services and interact with patrons in novel ways–within the library walls and out in the community.

Currently Leap’s function is not to replace the Polaris ILS, but to complement it. Because Leap uses the existing database and business objects, updates in Leap are reflected in the Polaris staff client, and updates to patron, circulation, and cataloging records and record sets in the Polaris staff client are reflected in Leap.

In addition, permissions that control access to Leap records and functions are controlled using Polaris Administration permissions. Once staff members have access to Leap, the functions they can perform in Leap depend on the permissions that control the corresponding functions in the Polaris ILS staff client. Other Polaris Administration settings apply specifically to Leap.

This section covers the following topics:

• System Requirements
• Signing In and Out of Leap
• Leap User Interface
• Searching for Records and Record Sets
• Understanding Locked Records
• Modifying User Settings
• Setting Up Receipt Printing
• Using RFID in Leap
• Browser and iPad Issues