Polaris is the name for the library automation system developed by Polaris Library Systems of Syracuse, New York. 

Polaris is a client/server system using the Windows operating system. The preferred web browser is Microsoft Internet Explorer, but Polaris is compatible with most other web browsers. This system of networked computers keeps track of all of the library’s functions, and make library operations run more smoothly and quickly. With Polaris, all of the searching can be done through a single workstation.

Benefits for the library user

• Faster check ins and check outs 
• Faster delivery of reserve material
• Faster availability of new titles
• Search the catalog of the local library by computer
• Tailored search modes: basic and expert 
• View the status of a book
• Check on personal borrowing record 
• Reserve books online
• Search databases of magazines & encyclopedias  
• Search for information on the Internet 
• Access to an online catalog that includes the collections of 31 Montgomery County Libraries
• Doing all these things while in the library or from home