Shoutbomb SMS Notices (Sierra)

Owned by Tammy Poquette, created
Last updated: Nov 15, 2023 by Brandon Cole
3 min read

Please note that Shoutbomb sign up methods have changed. We are working on getting this documentation updated to reflect those changes for patron on both MLN1 and MLN2.

Shoutbomb is a software service that allows libraries to send SMS messages to all text message-enabled phones. Patrons can reply, using pre-selected keywords, to request additional information or carry out tasks such as renewing items.

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SHOUTBOMB SMS INFORMATION

What Kind of Notices Do I Receive?

Text NOTICES to view the current status of all the opt-in/out notices. These notices are ON by default. These notices are ON by default.  Texting the keyword (e.g. HOLDS) to 844-225-9488 will turn that type of notice off.  Text the keyword again to turn the notice back on.

  • HOLDS: This is a notice that you have holds ready to be picked up.

  • OVERDUE: This is a notice that things are already overdue.

  • RENEW: This is a notice that things will soon be due, and you can renew them.

  • FEES: This is a notice that there are fines or fees owed.

  • ANNOUNCEMENTS: These notices will feature library closures, etc.

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Will I be Charged for This Service?

The library does not charge a fee for this service, but your cell phone plan’s regular text messaging rates still apply. Check with your cell phone service provider to see the cost of text messages in your service plan. You can expect a larger volume of text messages with this service.

What Do I Need?

  • A mobile phone with text messaging capability

  • Subscription to text messaging (check your cell phone service plan)

  • Your phone must be able to send a text message to an email address

  • Your library card number (barcode)

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How Do I Sign Up?

  • Text SIGNUP to 844-225-9488 to sign up for this text messaging service. It will ask for the library card number. If you wish, you can add additional library cards (for instance, your child’s card) to your account. Once you sign up please let your local library know so they can stop calling when the books and movies you request become available. Everyone who was already signed up for text messages was automatically signed up for Shoutbomb, and no further action is needed.

  • Enter your card # (Full number with no spaces, e.g. 409000xxxxxxx)

  • Enter email address (optional)

  • Please note this service cannot be used in lieu of a library card and is only intended to provide notifications–you can, however, add your card to a smartphone app.

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What Other Text Commands Can I use?

Other Commands (send all keywords to 844-225-9488:
TEST: Test your connection to the service.
HELP: Get help with a command. E.g., type HELP FEES to get help with that command.
MYBOOKS: Inquire about the status of all of your library items.
IOWEU: Get a list of fines and fees for all registered barcodes.
RHL: Get a list of holds expiring soon.
HL: Get a list of holds that are ready to pick up.
OA: The service will attempt to renew all overdue items and will reply with a list of items that were successfully and unsuccessfully renewed.
OL: Generates a numbered list of all overdue items eligible for renewal.
RA: The service will attempt to renew all items and will reply with a list of items that were successfully and unsuccessfully renewed.
RI: Get a list of items that are coming due and that cannot be renewed.
RL: Generates a numbered list of renewable items.
MYCARDS: Generates a numbered list of the barcodes currently registered to your phone.
ADDCARD: This will add a barcode registered to your phone for notices.
DROPCARD: To remove a card from your phone for notices.
ADDEMAIL: Change the email on your account.
SWITCHPHONE: Update your phone number or mobile service provider (AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, etc).
RESEND: Receive the last message again.
STOP: Immediately remove your number from the text service, no questions asked.
QUIT:  A longer way to quit the service. You will be prompted to enter the barcode and will receive a message confirming your request.

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When Will I Receive Texts?

Texts will be sent only when activity on your account triggers a message and will be sent between 9:00 am and 7:00 pm.

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Voice Message Service FAQs

  • What phone number do calls come from?

    • 970-399-5488 . This is the only number it calls from. You can expect a larger volume of calls with this service.

  • Can I customize the types of phone notifications I get?

    • You can call 970-399-5488 and customize which types of notifications you get.

  • How do I know which titles specifically are on hold or overdue?

    • Call 970-399-5488 and follow the prompts to get more specific information about your holds or overdue notices.

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Examples of Libraries that have information about Shoutbomb SMS service for patrons

Marmot Libraries

Other Libraries

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