SAILS Library Network


The SAILS Library Network, formerly Southeastern Automated Integrated Library Services, is a non-profit library consortium of 72 member libraries in 40 communities located throughout Southeastern Massachusetts. SAILS was founded in 1995 to link the ABLE and SEAL library networks, which were later dissolved into SAILS in 2000. The network provides library patrons with access to check out and return items at member libraries, interlibrary loans through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners' Commonwealth Catalog, mobile app access, and access to electronic collections. Member libraries are provided customized online catalog services, digital collections storage, internet and telecommunications services, email and Google Apps accounts for library staff, access to SirsiDynix software, and staff training.
Approximately 70 percent of funding for SAILS comes from dues from member libraries, with the remaining portion coming from government subsidies and grants. In fiscal year 2017, the network's 463,000 patrons checked out almost 3.6 million items, worth an estimated $44 million. Deliveries of materials between member libraries and other library networks in Massachusetts through an interlibrary loan program are made by the Massachusetts Library System located in Waltham. Member libraries must maintain certification from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to remain in the network. The network uses SirsiDynix integrated library system for staff function workflows: acquisitions, cataloging, circulation, ILL, and serials as well as for their patron's Online Public Access Catalog. The libraries provide access to reference databases, digital libraries, access to free music online, museum passes, genealogy, workshops, and other free services that vary from each location. In 2018, the network introduced automatic renewals on most items.

Member libraries

Public libraries