The December 2025 Polaris release is here with complete web-based administration, enhanced technical services, and platform wide improvements.
We are pleased to announce that a new version of Polaris is now available. This release completes our initiative to bring all System Administration settings into a secure, web-based interface and adds powerful new features to support administration, technical services, and library workflows.
What’s new in Polaris
- Web-Based system administration
Now you can manage acquisitions and serials settings, PAC configuration, vendor accounts, resource groups, and credit-card payment integrations entirely through a browser. Administrators can view and edit configurations from anywhere, eliminating reliance on desktop-only tools.
- Bulk updates for configuration tables
New bulk-update functionality enables fast, easy modifications to tables like Patron Material Type Loan Limits or Floating-item tables – simplifying configuration at scale across branches.
- Log File & SQL job access (read-only)
Administrators can now access Polaris log files (SIP, API, web services) and SQL job statuses via the web interface – giving access to key troubleshooting and monitoring tools without direct database access.
- Expanded technical services tools
Enhancements include support for bibliographic record templates, ad-hoc MARC exports, automatic import of MARC records from third-party vendors, and streamlined fiscal-year rollover processing – all manageable through the web interface.
- New configuration options
Added support for display-item management, date-stamped patron notes, and an automatic patron-code aging process. These provide additional flexibility and control for libraries managing evolving collections and patron bases.
Polaris reflects feedback from libraries participating in the IUG Member Exclusive Enhancement Program (MEEP) and our ongoing drive to make administration more modern, flexible, and responsive to library needs.
Why this matters to your library
- Flexible, secure administration from anywhere – With full web-based admin capabilities, library staff and system admins can configure and manage the system from any location with internet access.
- More efficient workflows at scale – Bulk-edit tools and streamlined technical services save time and reduce manual overhead – especially important for multi-branch or consortium environments.
- Better transparency and support for troubleshooting – Web-access to log files and job reports helps track system behavior and troubleshoot issues without direct database access.
- Improved resource management and patron services – From MARC imports to patron-code management and cataloging flexibility, this release of Polaris improves how libraries manage collections and patrons – giving them more control and reducing manual burden.
Read the full feature list
For full details on all enhancements, see the What’s New in Polaris 8.0 documentation.
You can also explore related training, instructions and resources on the Polaris LibGuides.
Plan your upgrade
If you’re updating from an older version, check the updated system requirements posted on Support Center Knowledge Base.
Register for the webinar
We will be hosting a feature-review webinar to walk through this 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
Ready to see the impact firsthand?
If you need help or have questions as you prepare for this version of Polaris, our team is here to support you – just submit a ticket through the Support Center.
Thank you for your continued partnership, we look forward to seeing how these updates support your library.