NATCHEZ — The George W. Armstrong Library will close for five days beginning Oct. 1 to install a new computer automation system that director Susan Cassagne says will benefit both staff and patrons.

The Polaris Library System, to be installed Oct. 1 – 6, will expedite registration, checkouts, computer printing and recordkeeping, Cassagne said. The library will reopen Oct. 7.

“We think it’s going to be much easier for both our patrons and staff to use,” Cassagne said of the system.

Cassagne said the system will work in conjunction with the library’s new Web site, which is now under construction. The system will allow users to keep a list of library books they’ve read, which can be accessed using a personal identification number.

Patrons can also sign up for an e-mail alert informing them of new book arrivals.

“Every time a new John Grisham book comes out, every time a new Greg Iles book comes out, they can create a request list that’s set up biweekly, monthly or bimonthly,” Cassagne said.

“You’ll get an e-mail saying, ‘Greg Iles has a new book out. Want to get on the list for it? Log in right now.’”

The system also allows children to search for books by illustrations and adjusts text size for the visually impaired.

Cassagne is confident the system will improve library operations, citing successful installations in Lincoln, Lawrence, Copiah and Jefferson counties.

“Several counties in Mississippi that are using this system are very pleased with it,” Cassagne said.

Due to the inconvenience of the library’s closing, Cassagne said the library is offering extended checkout to those who request it, and is waving fines for any library items returned between Oct. 7 and Oct. 10.

“We do hope our patrons have patience as they get through learning the new system,” Cassagne said. “It will be a learning experience for all of us.”