Aeon was developed in consultation with the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library at the University of Virginia, with guidance from current library director Christian DuPont, "who first suggested the concept and convinced us of the need to create Aeon," said M. Jason Glover, Atlas president. In June, DuPont will take over as Aeon Program Director, leading the introduction and strategic development of Aeon. Besides serving as Aeon spokesperson, DuPont will work with Atlas staff to develop a full range of consulting and training services to help libraries and archives improve staff workflows, facilities design, administration and management.

Aeon will help special collections libraries maintain an accurate historical record of transactions of patron usage, as well as provide the ability to track library staff's handling of an item from start to finish. Its easy-to-implement collection management system delivers a feature-rich framework, including:

• Customizable web interface for patron requesting
• OpenURL linking with ILS and EAD finding aids
• Intuitive staff interface designed to help manage the circulation process
• Custom reporting covering patron history, item history and other statistics
• Controlled access to class reserve materials
• Variety of patron authentication options

BCR will be offering members a special discount, with access to free web demos coming soon. Keep an eye out for details over the next several weeks.

Read an overview or for additional information concerning subscriptions and pricing, contact BCR's Jay Ford (jford@bcr.org).