Union Public Library is now part of a large library consortium called STELLA (formerly known as LMxAC). With 43 member libraries located in Union, Middlesex, and Monmouth counties, our cardholders will now have access to a shared catalog with over 3.2 million items. Going forward it will be quicker and easier to locate, request and receive items from these other libraries.
In essence, a UPL cardholder will be able to search for and put holds on books from any of the participating libraries. This means that you have a much larger catalog to explore and that you are not limited to only those items in our library. UPL cardholders may also pick up books at any of the STELLA libraries.
If you have any questions, please call the Adult Services desk at 908-851-5450 x3 or email us at unionpl@uplnj.org
A New Way to Browse Online
Our new library system launches with a redesigned library catalog and updated library app (coming soon). The new catalog is more intuitive and user friendly and will make it easier than ever to find what you’re looking for, manage your account, and to discover new things along the way!
Features Of Our New Catalog
Selecting Desired Format
With the new rollup capability, you can select your desired format directly from the search results. Tabs will indicate formats such as book, large print, eBook, eAudiobook, and more, for easy selection.
Author Details
Clicking on the author’s name anywhere in the new catalog brings up a page with biographical information, books and resources written by the author, items of related topics, and more!
Series
Another helpful feature in the new catalog is that when you’re viewing details about a book that is part of a series, you’ll easily be able to find other books in that same series.
New Arrivals
Want to find the latest and greatest?
You’ll be able to easily filter search results to new items at your home library for quick access to see what’s just arrived!
My Bookshelf
My Bookshelf will be your personalized area for account information, list of checked out physical and digital materials, bookmarked items and lists, saved searches, and reading history (if you choose to enable).
FAQs
Will I still be able to access my ebooks/audiobooks through Libby and Hoopla?
- Yes. Ebooks and audiobooks through our digital services Hoopla and Libby will still be available. The next time you borrow from Libby you will be prompted to choose your library- please search for STELLA and then choose eLibrary NJ Stella . Your card number and pin will be the same.
Will there be a new mobile app?
- The new mobile app is now available through your app store. Please search for “STELLA libraries”. The previous app UPL-NJ has been retired.
How will I be notified that my hold has arrived at my library?
Patrons will received an email (if you have provided one) letting you know your item has arrived. Please check your spam if you have not received a notification from us. If you do not have an email on file you will receive an automated phone call.
How do I borrow materials from a STELLA library?
- You can place a hold through our catalog and set your pick up location to Union Public Library (Main or Vauxhall) or any library in STELLA that is convenient to you. Your request will be delivered to your selected pick-up location, and you will be notified when it is ready to pick up. Alternatively, you may visit any STELLA library, in-person, and check out items with your Union Public Library card. Please note that libraries may have restrictions on certain materials.
Do I have full access to the collections at other STELLA libraries?
- Unfortunately specialty items such as Museum Passes and Library of Things items are limited to patrons who reside in the owning library’s municipality. Each library sets their own rules for what material can be borrowed by their residents vs. non-residents. The best way to ensure you are able to borrow material prior to making a trip to a specific library is to place a hold. If you are not able to borrow an item due to residency, our new system will let you know.
How do returns work?
- You can return material to any STELLA library, and staff will take care of checking-in items and returning them to its owning library.
