Search results

In the last issue of OCLC Systems and Services we examined a feasibility study being conducted by a few libraries and OCLC. This study was designed to explore the possibility of linking a library′s local ILL electronic request system to OCLC. The OCLC link eliminates the rekeying of patron requests, which reduces the ILL staff workload and speeds request inputting, both of which would be beneficial to any Interlibrary Loan department. Of the four participants in the study, one site, Southeast Florida Information Network, has entered its testing mode, and only one site, Colorado State University, has successfully implemented and is currently using this link.

Providing effective subject access to OPACs is a major problem area and this article considers the relative merits of providing enhanced content indexing of document records with natural language or controlled vocabulary. The retrieval performance of a particular approach is not the only factor to be taken into consideration and the need for multilingual subject access to OPAC records is discussed.

Examines the use of Interlibrary loan databases and online logging systems in determining which titles are collected. Discusses the objective of collecting ILL data, alternative data sources, the system used at UTK, and the challenges to data collection. Concludes that formal evaluation of the system will take place after the service has in place for a year, while ILL data supply will become increasingly important for collection development.

Interlending activities in various countries, particularly in academic libraries, are examined. The growth of networking and the importance of a strong infrastructure are discussed. A system of cost recovery for large net‐lenders is outlined. Developments in copyright are reviewed.

The Technology Collaboration Agreement signed by SilverPlatter and CARL Corporation is symptomatic of the way boundaries between electronic delivery technologies are eroding. CDROM specialist SilverPlatter and CARL, a provider of integrated library systems and document delivery services, made the agreement to work together long term with the aim of cutting out duplication and complementing each other's strengths.