OCLC’s WorldCat Local: A Promising Development for Library Patrons , by Barbara Quint, Newsbreaks (Apr 23)
OCLC is developing a new service called WorldCat Local for subscribing libraries for finding books, articles, reports etc.
"Local libraries adopting WorldCat Local will have a locally branded interface presented to their patrons through the library’s Web site. Options will make it possible to integrate the services with circulation records, resource sharing, and licensed full-text collections. Cooperative efforts are already underway with three major integrated library system/OPAC vendors—Innovative Interfaces, SirsiDynix, and Ex Libris Voyager. When fully interoperable, it should allow WorldCat Local to support users’ requests for items from library collections, including interlibrary loan and accessing online resources. In time, OCLC hopes to add connections to social networking services."
My guess is that this will be only in the United States - at least for some time.
Posted by Gwen at April 23, 2007 05:29 PM