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Request a library book...via Amazon

Submitted by Merlin on September 16, 2004 - 4:45am.

Jon Udell: LibraryLookup (Build your own bookmarklet)

I still can’t get over how cool this is. Jon Udell’s little wizard lets you generate a bookmarklet for requesting a library book—based on the Amazon page you’re currently viewing. It’s clearly a flawless lifehack.

You just need to know your library’s URL and which system your own city uses (which Jon makes simple by providing preview links to see which style your system seems to follow). San Francisco folks, use “http://sflib1.sfpl.org/” and leave the default system of “Innovative” selected.

I’ve combed through my Amazon wishlist over the past month and have been able to find almost 20 books I was going to buy—all of which have since been shuttled from SF’s many branch libraries to the cozy little outpost just beyond my front yard.

Top 10 hack, Jon. Many thanks.

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I created a customized version...

Submitted by Ian Olsen-Clark (not verified) on September 16, 2004 - 12:57pm.

I created a customized version of Jon’s bookmarklet to support the Chicago Public Library. Chicago uses the slightly esoteric CARLweb system. You can find my CARLweb specific version here bookmarklet here. If your library uses the CARLweb system it should be possible to adapt my code. Drop me an email if you need any guidance.