Q: What modules do I need?

A: Needs vary depending upon your library.  However, all Surpass systems need Surpass Central as their starting point.  And because almost all libraries need a searchable patron access catalog (PAC) for performing subject, title, author, and keyword searches, you should also choose either Surpass Safari or Surpass Web Safari.  This forms a base system.

In addition to the base system, Surpass Copycat can provide a cost effective method for obtaining free MARC records from the Internet.

If you're running Surpass Select on a network, then you'll also need network licensing. You can purchase individual station licenses or an unlimited site license.  If you have ten or more computers that will be running any Surpass application, then the site license will make the most sense.

Other modules, like Surpass Serials or Surpass Self-Check and services like Safari Selections are optional, but can enhance your use of Surpass.  Ask your Surpass automation specialist to help find the products and services that will best meet your needs.

Q:  I'm with a district and we want to upgrade to a centralized system later. Can we do this with Surpass?

A: Absolutely.  In fact, because Surpass Select and Surpass Centriva are built upon the same core modules, the process does not require learning new software.  With the addition of optional server software and perhaps some licensing, moving from Surpass Select to Surpass Centriva (centralized) is just a matter of combining the databases into a centralized database at a single location!

Q:  Do I need Safari if I purchase Web Safari?

A: No.  Both Safari and Web Safari provide the same catalog functions. Some libraries choose just one, while others choose both.  Web Safari provides access via the Internet and to users of any computer (PC or Mac) running any operating system via a web browser.  Some libraries with Web Safari choose to also purchase Safari though because they prefer to have catalog access from within the library through a standard Windows program, rather than a browser, particularly if they serve younger patrons.

Q:  Can I upgrade from Safari to Web Safari later?

A: You can either add Web Safari to your Safari offering later, you can choose to replace Safari with Web Safari. Because the programs provide the same basic functionality (and even share a common interface), one is not considered an upgrade or downgrade from the other.  Instead, we call switching from one to the other a "crossgrade".  There is a fee for a Safari to Web Safari crossgrade of typically around $400.  When you crossgrade, Safari will become de-licensed (you'll no longer be able to run it) when Web Safari is licensed.