The beta version of the new library catalog, WorldCat Local, went online on March 17 and includes several new features that increase the ease and efficiency of library searches.
According to Dean of Libraries Dr. John Buschman, in a message from Provost: "The system underlying WorldCat has been developed by the Online Computer Center, a nonprofit organization that provides services to thousands of libraries internationally."
Buschman said some of the features include its content expansion, which allows students and faculty to search for ebooks and print books.
WorldCat Local also allows the community to renew items and place holds on materials, according to Buschman.
It provides options to create bibliographies and move materials to various programs such as online research management tools such as RefWorks, Buschman said.
According to Assistant Dean of Learning and Outreach Services Dr. Naomi Gold, one of the features she finds most important is "the ability to add selected databases to your search of our print and e-book holdings."
"While Worldcat already searches and provides access to a plethora of free online content, you can also select up to three specific library databases to that search," Gold added.
These features are currently not available in the SetonCAT system, However, Buschman's message states that the updated features in WorldCat Local will become the new SetonCAT at the end of the spring semester. Familiar features will remain the same in the catalog, such as the SHU-search interface.
Buschman also said that the library will be offering sessions to acquaint students and faculty with the updated catalog system. These meetings will be offered in future semesters. Buschman encouraged the Seton Hall community to test it.
According to Gold, there is a feedback form on the library homepage for users to express their thoughts on the new features.
"We'd like our users' opinions and input on what they want Worldcat Local to do for them, Gold said.
Rachel Hassett can be reached at rachel.hassett@student.shu.edu.
