Patrons of the Garnett Library at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) will find a more streamlined process to search for resource materials and manage their accounts when they utilize the library’s services this fall.
Officials with Missouri State University Libraries, in partnership with EBSCO, one of the leading providers of research databases, e-journals, e-books and discovery services to libraries, upgraded its fundamental informational system in June.
“I believe patrons will find this new system much easier to use,” said Director of Library Services Rebekah McKinney. “It allows them to search for everything at once. They won’t have to jump to different websites then jump back or access another screen to see their account information. It will be a one-stop location for all of their library needs.”
“The Future of Libraries Is Open”
The system’s foundation is EBSCO’s open-source library services software platform FOLIO (the Future Of Libraries Is Open). The platform not only supports traditional resource management, it also has the ability to deliver new services. Open-source systems allow for more choice, more innovative technology and lower costs, library officials said.
“FOLIO is the background system we use to provide information about our collections,” McKinney said. “It allows us as librarians to have some input in the creation of the system itself. We can tailor it to meet our current needs, and it’s flexible enough that, as our needs change, we can change the system.”
The system also includes the EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS), a single search box discovery interface that allows users to search across multiple e-resources around the world and locally digitized content quickly and seamlessly.
McKinney said patrons will use this part of the system the most, since through it they will be able to access online journals and articles, e-books, videos, photos and information about physical collections housed in the Garnett Library and other MSU libraries.
“The EDS is an excellent source because it allows for one-stop service,” McKinney said.
Other system components
Other components of the system are:
- OpenAthens, a simple, single sign-on system for managing identity and access to digital resources;
- E-Resource Management (ERM), a software tool used to manage, assess and improve e-resource content and services, and to monitor and control costs.
Through OpenAthens, patrons can access their account information and see when books are due or renew access to resources.
“I think it’s going to be a great benefit to everyone,” McKinney said of the new system.
According to library staff at the Springfield campus, the MSU Library system is the first library system in the United States to implement the FOLIO’s full platform of information programs.
For more information about the new EBSCO FOLIO system or the services available through the Garnett Library, call 417-255-7945.