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, access to Leap functions are controlled using the same Polaris Administration permissions as are used in the Polaris staff client. 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.