Virtual OPACs versus union database: two models of union catalogue provision

Abstract

Z39.50 is often put forward as a means of providing a virtual union catalogue without the need for a physical union database. This paper considers some of the major technical and organisational issues involved in virtual catalogue production, contrasting them with the traditional union catalogue approach exemplified by COPAC. A way of integrating these two models of the union catalogue is suggested, which would allow effective service provision in the immediate future.

Citation

Cousins, S. (1999), "Virtual OPACs versus union database: two models of union catalogue provision", The Electronic Library, Vol. 17 No. 2, pp. 97-103. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640479910329617