Grove for Libraries announces the release of Aspen Discovery 26.01, the first Aspen release of 2026. This update introduces new tools for engaging patrons, improvements to the LiDA mobile experience, and quality-of-life enhancements for Aspen administrators, all shaped by collaboration with the Aspen community.
Hero Sliders and Digital Signage
Aspen 26.01 introduces Hero Sliders and Digital Signage, a new feature that allows libraries to create rotating image slideshows for both online and in-library use. Slideshows can be embedded directly into Aspen Web Builder pages or displayed on digital signage.
This feature gives libraries a flexible way to highlight programs, announcements, and seasonal messaging across physical and digital spaces.
New Browse Category Design in LiDA
Aspen 26.01 debuts a new Browse Category design in LiDA, Aspen’s mobile app. Supported collaboratively by five library systems, the redesigned interface offers a cleaner, more intuitive browsing experience that helps patrons discover content more easily on mobile devices.
This update reflects a shared investment by the Aspen community in improving patron-facing discovery tools.
Additional Enhancements
Aspen 26.01 also includes a variety of additional updates and refinements across the platform, including:
- Searchable release notes
- Updates to the Aspen Events module
- Usability improvements for facets
- List groups in LiDA
- Additional enhancements and refinements throughout Aspen
Each Aspen release is shaped by collaboration with libraries and the broader Aspen community. With the 26.01 release, Grove continues that partnership by delivering new features and improvements that support both library staff and patrons.
Learn More
You can see demonstrations of all of the key 26.01 features in the Aspen Inside Scoop Video on Grove's YouTube Channel.
Full 26.01 release notes are available at https://demo.groveforlibraries.com/Admin/ReleaseNotes?release=26.01.00
We’d like to thank the following libraries for sponsoring development from Grove for Aspen 25.12:
- CLEVNET Library Cooperation
- Colorado Library Consortium (CLiC)
- Gail Borden Public Library
- Helen Plum Public Library
- Hoopla (Midwest Tape)
- Minuteman Library Network
- Nashville Public Library
- Orange County Library System
- SHARE
- SWAN Library Network
- Wasatch County Library
- West Sussex City Council
- Wyoming State Library (WYLD)
