EXLIBRIS 1.5 is a major update focused on improving book metadata management, reducing plugin dependencies, enhancing performance, and delivering a more professional bookstore experience for WordPress and WooCommerce users.
This release introduces Hardcover API Integration, allowing store owners to automatically import detailed book information directly from the Hardcover database. Version 1.5 also replaces external Live Search and Dark Mode plugins with native theme functionality, improves the Google Books integration, and includes numerous UI, customization, and performance enhancements.
Hardcover API Integration
One of the biggest additions in EXLIBRIS 1.5 is the new Hardcover API Integration.
Store owners can now search for books directly from the WordPress admin panel using a live search field.
How to Use the Hardcover API in EXLIBRIS
To connect the Hardcover API, create an account on Hardcover, go to API section and generate your Bearer Token. Copy the token and paste it into the Hardcover API settings panel within EXLIBRIS. Once connected, simply search for a book title from the product editor, select the desired result, and Theme will automatically retrieve and populate the available metadata.
The Hardcover importer supports the following fields:
- Search Book (Live Search)
- ISBN
- Hardcover ID
- Cover Image
- Publish Date
- Resume
- Pages
- Categories
- Tags
This feature significantly reduces manual work and makes it easier to build complete and professional book catalogs using reliable book metadata.
Native AJAX Live Search and Dark Mode
Starting with version 1.5, EXLIBRIS no longer requires third-party plugins for Live Search and Dark Mode functionality.
The theme now includes Native AJAX Live Search and Native Dark Mode.
By integrating these features directly into the theme, users benefit from improved performance, reduced plugin conflicts, easier maintenance, and a more seamless browsing experience.
Improved Google Books API Integration
The Google Books API loader has been optimized to provide a faster and more reliable importing experience.
EXLIBRIS continues to support Google Books as a metadata optional source, allowing bookstore owners to quickly retrieve book information while benefiting from improved loading performance and cleaner data processing.
Combined with the new Hardcover API Integration, EXLIBRIS now offers multiple sources for importing book metadata and building comprehensive online book catalogs.
User Interface Improvements
Version 1.5 introduces several visual refinements designed to create a cleaner, more modern, and more professional appearance throughout the theme.
Changes include:
- New default font: Geist Sans
- Improved visual consistency
- Enhanced user interface elements
- Product filters
- More professional overall design
These refinements improve readability, navigation, and the overall shopping experience for visitors.
New Customization Options
EXLIBRIS 1.5 adds new customization controls to give users greater flexibility when building their bookstore.
New options include:
Fluid Container Toggle
Users can now switch between fixed-width and fluid layout directly from the theme settings, making it easier to adapt the design to different preferences and screen sizes.
Border Radius Control
A new Border Radius field allows precise control over corner rounding by entering a custom pixel value, providing additional flexibility for creating unique visual styles.
Performance and Code Optimizations
Several internal improvements have been implemented to make the theme faster, cleaner, and easier to maintain.
These optimizations include:
- Optimized Google Books API loader
- Optimized core theme files
- Optimized page templates
- Removed unused fields
- General code cleanup and maintenance
These changes contribute to improved performance and a smoother user experience across the entire website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EXLIBRIS 1.5?
Version 1.5 (June 2026) is a major update for the EXLIBRIS WordPress and WooCommerce bookstore theme, introducing Hardcover API Integration, native AJAX Live Search, native Dark Mode, Google Books API improvements, UI enhancements, and performance optimizations.
Can EXLIBRIS import book metadata automatically?
Yes. EXLIBRIS can automatically import book metadata from both the Hardcover API and Google Books API.
What information can be imported from Hardcover API?
The Hardcover API importer supports ISBN, Book ID, cover image, publication date, resume, page counts, categories (genres), and tags (moods).
Does EXLIBRIS still require a Live Search plugin?
No. AJAX Live Search is now built directly into the theme and no longer requires a third-party plugin.
Does EXLIBRIS include Dark Mode?
Yes. Dark Mode is now a native feature included with the theme.
Is EXLIBRIS compatible with WooCommerce?
Yes. EXLIBRIS is built specifically for WordPress and WooCommerce bookstores.
Why Ex Libris 1.5 Matters
EXLIBRIS 1.5 strengthens its position as a complete WooCommerce bookstore solution by combining powerful book metadata import tools with modern user experience features.
Whether you’re building a small online library or a large WooCommerce bookstore, this update helps you:
- Import book metadata automatically
- Manage catalogs more efficiently
- Reduce plugin dependencies
- Improve site performance
- Deliver a better shopping experience
- Customize your store more easily
With support for both Hardcover API and Google Books API, native AJAX Live Search, built-in Dark Mode, and extensive UI improvements, EXLIBRIS 1.5 delivers one of the most significant updates in the theme’s history.
