July/August  2003 Page 2 

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Nebraska Library Commission Network Services News

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OCLC News  

OCLC PRODUCT OF THE MONTH : ILL POLICIES DIRECTORY

SAVE PRECIOUS TIME PROCESSING ILL REQUESTS
In times like these, Interlibrary Loan goes up...way up. The new OCLC ILL Policies Directory can save you and your OCLC partner's precious time processing ILL requests. You can notify potential borrowers of items you cannot lend, enter your library's OPAC and more.

The ILL Policies Directory provides users of OCLC ILL with a Web-based, central source for entering and retrieving data required for ILL activities: policies, billing, system, and contact information for any OCLC ILL participating institution. The product includes Web-based searching and profiling screens, and is accessed from the OCLC ILL Web Interface, OCLC ILLiad, or directly from the OCLC ILL Policies Directory Web site. Users can search for contact or system information on a participating provider.

The ILL Policies Directory was released on February 16, 2003 and has to date been used by 700 libraries to create over 1600 policies. The Directory continues to grow larger every day as OCLC moves towards migration away from the NAD for ILL policies.

Beginning on August 24, ILL policies will no longer be stored in the Name Address Directory(NAD).
When displaying the holdings for an item in the ILL Web interface, clicking on the red question mark next to an institution's symbol will search the ILL Policies Directory instead of the NAD.

No information will be migrated from the NAD to the Policies Directory. Basic institution information has been provided for every member library which means there is a high-level record available for every member library. Policies, contacts, and additional site information need to be added by ILL users. We encourage you to enter your library's information into the ILL Policies Directory between now and August 24th.

There are two ways you can access the Directory:

  • You can log on to the OCLC ILL Web interface at <http://illweb.oclc.org> and click on the Policies Directory link at the top of the screen. This will launch the Directory in a new browser window.
    OR
  • You can go straight to the Directory at <http://illpolicies.oclc.org>. You use your OCLC ILL authorization and password to access the Policies Directory.

    Once you are in the Policies Directory, click My Units at the top of the screen to view and edit your own library's records. Access & User Support Fees will not accrue in *ANY* ILL Policies Directory session no matter which interface you choose to enter from.

    On May 19, 2003, OCLC updated the ILL Policies Directory. This new version includes the following enhancements requested by the OCLC ILL user base:

  • Enhanced Searching. The Basic Search screen now allows for symbol or name-only searches. Users can now enter just the OCLC symbol or name for a library to see its policies or contacts. The Symbol search results will be limited to just the symbol and not to words containing that search string. Remember, if you want to find your own institution in the directory, always click My Units at the top of the screen.

  • Display Symbols feature. When using the Advanced Search, the result set currently displays a list of unit records according to the combined search criteria. Now, users can click Display Symbols, which will display a pop-up screen containing just the OCLC institution symbols from that search. The symbols are spaced so that the result set can easily be cut and pasted into the appropriate Custom Holdings group.
    Note: Since the ILL system now skips over the user's own institution symbol, there is no need to edit the search result set before pasting it into Custom Holdings. The ILL system will not suggest a user's own symbol in a lender string.

  • I'm a Reciprocal Lender. In addition to creating policies geared towards libraries that do not charge, you can now check a field that tells the other libraries that you are a Reciprocal Lender. The phrase is displayed in your QuickView summary screen.

  • I'm an International Lender. In addition to creating policies geared toward international libraries, you can now check a field that tells the other libraries that you lend across borders. The borrowing library should then check your policies to see the fine print. International Lenders can also be found via the Advanced Search. The phrase "International Lender" is displayed in your QuickView summary screen.

    Additionally, with the May 19 release, the ILL Policies Directory includes the following enhancements to benefit OCLC ILL Group activity:

  • Group records. For any current or new OCLC profiled group, a group record can be set up to include policies, group information and contacts. Examples of groups are GACs or GAC/ULs. A group could include such affiliations as consortia, regional or state bodies, or special interest groups.

  • Group linking. Individual members of groups will have links to the groups they belong to within their own QuickView summary screens.

  • Group authorizations. Administrators of groups can apply for OCLC authorizations that will allow them to create policies, contacts, and group information. A resulting QuickView is created for groups.

    Note: Group profiling is the only way that groups can be inserted into the Directory at an institution level. Many groups have not been profiled at OCLC. If you know of groups (state, consortia, regional, special interest) that should be profiled in the system, please email Christa Burns, or phone 402-471-3107 or 800-307-2665. Remember, the profiling process is completely free of charge.

    Instructions for entering your information into the new ILL Policies Directory can be found in a new reference card, "Getting Started with the ILL Library Policies and Technology Directory", which is available from the Directory web site at <http://www.oclc.org/oclc/ill/illpolicies.htm>.

    In addition, Technical Bulletin 248: OCLC ILL Policies Directory, available at <http://www.oclc.org/technicalbulletins/248/>, provides detailed information about the OCLC ILL Policies Directory, including instructions on using the Directory and screen shots.

    Please feel free to email Christa Burns, or phone 800-307-2665 or 402-471-3107.

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission
     

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    OCLC MEMBERS COUNCIL ENCOURAGES INCREASED PARTICIPATION, COOPERATION AT LOCAL AND GLOBAL LEVELS

    During its May 18-20 meeting at OCLC headquarters in Dublin, Ohio, OCLC Members Council took steps to encourage broader participation in the worldwide cooperative, discussed ways in which OCLC can help lead libraries through challenging economic times, and elected its leadership team for 2003-2004.

    For the full story go to <http://www5.oclc.org/downloads/design/abstracts/05272003/mc.htm>.

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission
     

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    OCLC WEB INFORMATION SESSIONS

    OCLC is offering FREE Web information sessions to both OCLC member and nonmember libraries. The sessions will include a live presentation that you will access from your own computer via the web, with audio available via a conference call. You will be able to submit questions you have at any time during the presentation. Registration information and complete descriptions of the sessions can be found on the OCLC Web site: <http://www.oclc.org/events/websessions/index.shtm>. The following sessions are currently scheduled:

    OCLC Language Sets
    Learn How To Develop Your Non-English Collections Affordably

  • Tuesday, July 29 1:30 - 2:00 p.m. (Central Time)

    QuestionPoint
    Make Digital Reference a Reality for Your Library

  • Tuesday, July 29 12:00 -1:00 p.m. (Central Time)
  • Tuesday, August 21 1:30 -2:30 p.m. (Central Time)

    OCLC Custom Cataloging
    Learn How To Give Your Patrons Improved Access To Your Entire Collection

  • Tuesday, August 26 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. (Central Time)

    OCLC MARC Record Service (OCLC MARS(r))
    Enhance Your Collection's Accessibility

  • Tuesday, July 22 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. (Central Time)

    OCLC ILLiad
    See all the new enhancements to OCLC ILLiad and learn how you can improve your library's ILL efficiency with OCLC ILLiad

  • Tuesday, July 22 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (Central Time)
  • Tuesday, August 21 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (Central Time)

    OCLC Digital Archive
    Preserve, Manage and Access Your Digital Collections with the OCLC Digital Archive

  • Tuesday, July 15 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (Central Time)
  • Tuesday, August 12 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (Central Time)

    OCLC Digital & Preservation Outreach Services
    Managing Your Digital Library

  • Tuesday, July 15 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. (Central Time)
  • Tuesday, August 12 2:30 - 1:30 p.m. (Central Time)

    OCLC Digital & Preservation Resources
    Digitizing your Historic Newspapers

  • Tuesday, July 15 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. (Central Time)
  • Tuesday, August 12 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. (Central Time)

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission
     

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    PUBLIC LIBRARIES MEET AT WEBJUNCTION

    OCLC and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation on May 12 launched a new, interactive Web site to help public libraries and other institutions make the most of information technology. The resource, called WebJunction <http://webjunction.org/>, was unveiled at the Great Hall of the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

    WebJunction is being developed through a three-year, $9 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The foundation's U.S. Library Program works in partnership with public libraries to provide public access to computers, the Internet and digital information for patrons in low-income communities in the United States.

    WebJunction gives public librarians a broad range of resources, including a forum for sharing information on policies and practices (e.g., Internet access for minors), technical resources, advice for purchasing hardware and software, and community message/discussion boards that cover both day-to-day support issues as well as broader management topics.

    OCLC is working with four partners that collectively bring the research, evaluation, governance, e-learning and technology skills instrumental to the successful design, development and operation of the Web site:

    The Colorado State Library <http://www.cde.state.co.us/index_library.htm>, part of the Colorado Department of Education, encourages and supports the development of public, school, and college and university libraries to improve library services. CSL also develops and supports the Colorado Virtual Library providing access to library resources and quality Web resources state wide. The state library has conducted a thorough needs assessment and is responsible for ongoing evaluation of WebJunction. It also facilitates communications with other state libraries.

    The mission of the Benton Foundation <http://www.benton.org> is to advance a public interest vision for the digital age and to demonstrate the value of communications for solving social problems. Its focus is on accelerating digital opportunity for all people. The Benton Foundation recommended governance and advisory structures and is assisting with online community building strategies for WebJunction.

    Isoph <http://www.isoph.com> offers expertise in instructional and graphic design, application development, and data integration to help mission-driven organizations achieve their fundamental goals. Its proprietary technology, Isoph Blue, enables the creation of Web communities driven by learning. For WebJunction, Isoph provides e-learning course content, the learning management system application of Isoph Blue via Web services, and assistance with site design.

    TechSoup <http://www.techsoup.org> is a comprehensive technology Web site just for nonprofits. TechSoup is a project of CompuMentor, a leading technology assistance organization serving the nonprofit community. This well-respected resource provides content evaluation, syndication of TechSoup content, and helps in developing low-cost technology replacement strategies for WebJunction.

    "Almost 100 percent of U.S. public libraries now offer public access to computing. However, many public libraries face a critical shortage of support for computer services they offer that goes well beyond technical, equipment-related concerns," said Marilyn Mason, WebJunction Program Director and former director of the public library systems in Cleveland, Ohio, and Atlanta, Georgia. "During these difficult economic times, public librarians are trying to make best use of existing resources, and many do not have access to technology training or guidance on computer usage policies. WebJunction will help library staff be more effective in offering and sustaining public access computing-helping them do more with less by connecting them with each other in an environment of difficult budgets."

    "People have come to rely on public access computers in their public libraries, and we must support libraries so this service can continue. The interactive WebJunction Web site will be an invaluable tool for the thousands of libraries working to sustain public access computing stations," said Richard Akeroyd, Director of International Library Initiatives for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. "By providing free, online technical assistance, the site will help libraries of all sizes maintain and even grow their public access workstations."

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission
     

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    WATCH WORLDCAT GROW!

    A new online "record counter" on the OCLC Web site lets you see new records as they are added to WorldCat, the OCLC Online Union Catalog. The counter displays a brief record that includes OCLC number, title, author, publisher, publication date, language, format and contributing institution. Every eight seconds the Web page is refreshed.

    To see the latest WorldCat record, go to </netserv/nebase/nebserv.html>.

    To learn more about WorldCat, go to <http://www.oclc.org/worldcat/>.

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission

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    Reference   

    OCLC FIRSTSEARCH SERVICE ENHANCEMENTS

    This article includes information for library staff in reference, interlibrary loan, collection development and systems.

    Please contact NEBASE, 402-471-3107 or 800-307-2665 or OCLC User and Network Support, 800-848-5800 or e-mail <support@oclc.org> with questions about these enhancements to the OCLC FirstSearch service.

    MAY 2003 ENHANCEMENTS

    WORLDCAT

    WorldCat Hot Topics
    Users of WorldCat on FirstSearch will notice a box labeled WorldCat Hot Topics at the top of the basic and advanced search screens from which they can view a drop-down menu of current, popular search topics. Selecting any of the topics from the menu will generate a search on that topic. Complete terms and search structure will be displayed with the search results, as with other searches on FirstSearch. The Hot Topics will be updated monthly and will provide library users with a quick and efficient means to retrieve relevant results on topics that would have otherwise taken several searches and additional time to perform. Initially, OCLC has identified topics of current interest that would appeal to users in public libraries. Based on feedback from users and librarians, we hope to expand the feature in the future, and may provide libraries with a mechanism to create their own pre-formed searches, or to edit the existing searches to suit their local environments. Please use the Comments link in the FirstSearch interface to send any suggestions you have about the Hot Topics.

    FIRSTSEARCH FUNCTIONALITY AND INTERFACE

    "See More Details for Locating This Item" Replaces "Get This Item" In Brief Records
    In response to feedback from librarians and library users, the label See more details for locating this item will replace Get This Item in links in brief records where there is no full-text link, in databases in which ILL or library ownership information is available. Clicking the link labeled See more details for locating this item will take a user to a "Get This Item" section at the top of the detailed record. The wording has been changed to make it clearer to users that by clicking the link they will bring up more options for obtaining the item, rather than leading them to expect full text.

    Date Last Updated Displays on Interface
    In response to users' suggestions, dates when FirstSearch databases were last updated will display on the search interface next to the drop-down box where the database name appears. While the majority of FirstSearch databases will display a date last updated as of this feature's first release, other databases will not until subsequent releases.

    FIRSTSEARCH CONTENT

    Twenty-seven Journals Added to OCLC FirstSearch Electronic Collections Online
    Twenty-seven new journals from thirteen publishers were added to OCLC FirstSearch Electronic Collections Online, bringing the online total to 4,595 journals available. The new titles and their ISSNs are available at <http://www2.oclc.org/oclc/fseco/index.asp>.

    Peer-Reviewed Journal Limit in PAIS International
    Searchers using the advanced or expert modes will be able to view only records for articles from peer-reviewed journals by using a new Peer Reviewed limiter when they search the PAIS International database. Over 66,000 (18.2%) of journal articles in PAIS are selected from peer-reviewed journals. Peer review means that other scholars in the field or an editorial board have reviewed the content for accuracy and is a way to evaluate the quality of information published in a journal.

    JUNE 2003 ENHANCEMENTS

    FIRSTSEARCH FUNCTIONALITY AND INTERFACE

    Number of Index Terms Matched by Truncated Searches Increases
    Responding to users' requests, the truncation limit for FirstSearch searches that use wildcards has been raised by a factor of 10. From the previous limit of 50, FirstSearch now allows wildcard searches to match up to 500 index terms, prior to returning results. This action was taken to lessen the frequency of users' receiving a message from FirstSearch indicating "Your search contained a term with wildcard characters that matched too many terms." The truncation limit is intended to maintain good performance of the system, and OCLC will continue to monitor both system performance and the occurrence of the error messages to determine if further adjustments need to be made.

    Advance Notice: Upcoming FirstSearch User Interface Changes
    The OCLC FirstSearch service user interface will soon have a new, updated appearance, shaped by user feedback and usability testing results. The changes, planned for July 13, will improve navigation, provide more customization options, and give FirstSearch a similar look to other OCLC products and services. A preview area is now available at <http://fsdemo.oclc.org>.

    XML Support for Z39.50 Added
    OCLC FirstSearch strives to adhere to library community standards to benefit our membership. The Bath Profile is an internationally recognized standard that deals with interoperability between Z39.50 servers and clients. Support for this standard is often required in RFPs. Functional Area C of the Bath Profile requires support for XML Dublin Core Simple records and this support is now available for WorldCat on FirstSearch. Support for other databases will be added in the future. The Z39.50 Access to the OCLC FirstSearch Service documentation at <http://www.oclc.org/firstsearch/documentation/z3950/bath.htm> will be updated to reflect support for this in WorldCat. Further updates will be made as XML support is added to other databases and as Bath Profile version 2 is pursued.

    FIRSTSEARCH CUSTOMIZATION

    Change to Virtual Catalogs Feature
    FirstSearch administrators can now combine any three FirstSearch databases to create a virtual catalog for persistent cross-database searching. Previously, one of the databases had to be WorldCat.

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission
     

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    Resource Sharing  

    CUSTOM HOLDINGS ENHANCEMENTS

    Two custom holdings enhancements were added to OCLC Interlibrary Loan at the end of April:

  • Libraries can now add their own symbol to any of their custom holdings groups. If they choose to add their symbol their holdings symbol will display in their custom holding displays but will NOT be included in system suggested lender strings. Adding their symbol to a custom holdings group can be helpful when displaying custom holdings union list displays since it will allow a library to review their own LDR information at the same time they are viewing the holdings information for the other libraries in their custom holdings path. Also, libraries can now just copy and paste from lists of libraries prepared by other users or from Participating Institution searches without having to remember to take their own symbol out. This enhancement is available in both the ILL Web Interface and Passport.

  • Libraries using the ILL Web Interface can now display their currently active custom holdings path. A button labeled "Current Holdings Path" has been added to the interface that enables libraries to view the name of the holdings path that is currently active and the names of custom holdings groups within the active path. Libraries using Passport have had access to this type of functionality through the 'sho hp' command.

    More information on ILL Custom Holdings can be found on the NEBASE Web site at </netserv/nebase/customholdings.html>.

    Myrtle Myers [edited]
    OCLC Resource Sharing Product Management
     

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    Cataloging   

    CONNEXION ENHANCEMENTS INSTALLED AND HELP DOCUMENTATION UPDATED
    OCLC completes regular maintenance and enhancement installs for OCLC Connexion. Maintenance installs generally include minor enhancements that do not affect documentation or training, as well as some problem fixes. The June install coincides with the WebDewey and Abridged WebDewey quarterly release.

    MAY INSTALLATION
    The OCLC Connexion May quarterly enhancement install on Sunday, May 18, 2003 was successful. Details are noted below and are also included in a System Update message in Connexion News.

    This installation includes the following enhancements:

  • Searching Enhancements
  • Save File Improvements
  • OCLC-MARC Format Update 2003
  • New Servers Added for Connexion Export

    Searching Enhancements
    The Command Line Search has been added to Authorities and Pathfinders. Quick Tips have been added for each of the new command lines. In Cataloging, Authorities, and Pathfinders the cursor will initially default to the command line, then after that it defaults to the last search in the current session. The Command Line Search in Authorities and Pathfinders supports the search types that are currently available in Connexion; this does not include derived searching for Authorities.

    You now have an option to retain your most recent search in several search dialogs throughout Connexion. The option is called "Retain Search", and the setting will default to off. If unselected, only the selections in the index lists and Boolean operators will be retained. Command line, numeric, and browse search boxes automatically retain your last search. Your last search is highlighted so that it can easily be revised or keyed over. (The Retain Search option will be added to Dewey Services at a later time.)

    The Internet qualifier has been added as a new qualifier list in the WorldCat Keyword Search area. Use the list to select the qualifier value: Internet or Non-Internet. "Any" indicates that no limit has been chosen.

    The Reset button is replaced with "Clear Search" on several search screens. If selected, all data typed in the boxes will be deleted; however, the selections in the index lists and the Boolean operators will be retained. (The Reset button in Dewey Services will be changed at a later time.)

    To maintain consistency throughout databases, minor changes to wording and formatting have been made on various search screens.

    The Browse results screen in Cataloging, Authorities, and Pathfinders now shows two separate columns; one column contains the results list and the other column contains the number of records. The entry that is the closest match is highlighted.

    Save File Improvements
    OCLC has changed the mechanism by which records are added to the Connexion save files. This eliminates the problem where users get the message "Update failed: Can't get lock". Second, if a search on the save file retrieves more than one record, the records will initially sort in save file number order. These changes will be installed for Bibliographic Save File, the Pathfinder Save File and the Digital Archive Save File on May 18, and at a later date for the Authority Save File (date to be determined).

    Save file numbers will now run from 1 to 9,999. Any existing save file records with the save file number of "0" will not be affected, but the "0" will not be re-assigned to newly saved records. This installation will also remove the leading zeroes in save file numbers. For example, the record with save file number "8" will search and display as "8", not "00008".

    OCLC-MARC Format Update 2003
    Changes announced in Technical Bulletin 249 (OCLC-MARC Format Update 2003) at <http://www.oclc.org/technicalbulletins/249/> are being installed at the same time as other changes described in this Enhancement Memorandum. A few of them affect only Connexion users. You can now input URL's in subfield $u in four additional specialized notes fields (fields 506, 538, 540, and the new field 563 (Binding Information)). These URL's are indexed in the URL Word and URL Phrase indexes for the Resource Catalog. Also, these URL's are treated the same as other URL's in Resource Catalog records. They are highlighted on display and they are subject to URL verification and notification like any other URL.

    New Servers Added for Connexion Export
    OCLC has added additional servers to handle the increased volume of exports from OCLC Connexion. If you export from Connexion using TCP/IP Export, please adjust your firewall settings so that the following IP addresses have permission to connect to your local system.

    132.174.2.5
    132.174.2.21
    132.174.2.67

    The port ranges for all 3 addresses are 30000-30499.

    JUNE INSTALLATION
    The OCLC Connexion Browser installation on Sunday, June 15 was successful.

    This installation message includes information about:

  • OCLC PICA Dutch Catalogue GGC - The first database to be linked remotely through Connexion
  • WebDewey/Abridged WebDewey Quarterly Update - WebDewey is now based on Edition 22

    OCLC PICA Dutch Catalogue GGC
    The OCLC PICA Dutch Catalogue GGC is being made available to Connexion users. The Pica GGC database resides in Leiden, the Netherlands, and is made up of over 18 million authority and bibliographic records for materials in all formats. Used primarily by Dutch libraries for their daily cataloging, it is a rich source of bibliographic information for European publications. It is the first database to be linked remotely through Connexion.

    Users may access this database through the Connexion browser (it will not be available in the Connexion client). By opening the Cataloging Search option, choose "Pica GGC."

    Searching in Pica GGC will mirror search applications in the Resource Catalog, but may retrieve both bibliographic and authority records. The resulting records are in MARC format.

    The only functionality associated with the Pica GGC records will be printing, and deriving (bibliographic records only). In deriving the bibliographic record, all Connexion functionality is present. A new Source status has been defined for the saved records. Users may limit by, or search by Status: Pica GGC. Once a record has been added to WorldCat, there will be no indication of the original source.

    When deriving records from Pica GGC, users are reminded that they should search WorldCat first to determine that the record does not already exist in WorldCat. The language of the cataloging should be in the language of the deriving library. For instance, notes may need to be converted from Dutch to English. While the Dutch subject headings may be retained, users are urged to add subject headings appropriate to their audience.

    WebDewey / Abridged WebDewey Quarterly Update
    The June 2003 release of WebDewey includes all the content in the new DDC 22, additional content only available in the electronic version, and several interface improvements. WebDewey is a Web-based version of the enhanced DDC 22 database and features: thousands of Relative Index terms and built numbers not available in the DDC print version; Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) that have been statistically mapped to Dewey numbers from records in WorldCat (the OCLC Online Union Catalog) and intellectually mapped by DDC editors (including up to LCSH Weekly List through no. 37, 2002); selected mappings from Medical Subject Headings (MeSH); links from mapped LCSH to the LCSH authority records; and quarterly database updates incorporating the latest changes to the Classification and new LCSH mappings, index terms, and built numbers.

    Notable changes in Edition 22 include major updates to:

  • 004-006 Data processing Computer science
  • The second of a two-phase update to reduce Christian bias in 200 Religion
  • 301-307 Sociology & anthropology
  • 340 Law
  • 510 Mathematics
  • 540 Chemistry
  • 610 Medicine & health
  • 900 History & geography
  • Selected changes to Tables through 6, including the renaming of Table 5 from "Racial, Ethnic, and National Groups" to "Ethnic and National Groups"
  • Replacement of Table 7 (Groups of Persons) with direct use of notation already available in the schedules and in notation 08 from Table 1
  • Streamlining of the Manual
  • And a number of additional updates made throughout the schedules

    The following interface changes are also now available:

  • The frequently-consulted Introduction is now easier to find through the Show Options dropdown menu
  • "Relocations, Discontinuations and Reused Numbers" is available as a downloadable MS Excel file in Help (Relocations, Discontinuations, and Reused Numbers is also available on the Dewey Web site at <http://www.oclc.org/dewey/DDC_Edition_22/Relocations_and_discontinuations.pdf>)
  • New Features, a summary of the changes in DDC 22, is available in Help (New Features is also available on the Dewey Web site at <http://www.oclc.org/dewey/DDC_Edition_22/NEW_FEATURES.pdf>)
  • Flow charts and the optional schedule for Tanakh (both formerly only available in the print version) now appear in the database.
  • The Quick Search/Browse feature (previously only available on schedule record pages) is now also available from Search and Browse results pages
  • Previous Search/Browse entry terms are now retained at the Search, Browse, and User Notes Search screens.
  • You can now easily navigate from your User Note to its corresponding DDC record
  • An Action list is now available at the bottom of the User Notes screen, enabling rapid keyboard entry of User Notes

    Abridged WebDewey is a Web-based version of the enhanced Abridged 13 database. Abridged WebDewey features LCSH that have been intellectually mapped to Dewey headings by DDC editors, including many from the OCLC publication, Subject Headings for Children; links from mapped LCSH to the LCSH authority records; mappings between abridged Dewey numbers and subject headings from the latest edition of H.W. Wilson's Sears List of Subject Headings; and quarterly database updates incorporating the latest changes to the DDC, new LCSH mappings, index terms, and built numbers. The next release of Abridged WebDewey will be the last release based on Abridged 13. In January 2004, OCLC will release Abridged Edition 14 in print and Web versions.

    A WebDewey tutorial is available at <http://www.oclc.org/dewey/about/tutorials.htm>.

    More information is available at <http://www.oclc.org/dewey>.

    CONNEXION HELP
    Updated Help was included in the releases of OCLC Connexion installed May 18 and June 15.

    Click Help on the header bar of any Connexion screen to view context-specific information and instructions. To find other Help topics, use:

  • Links to Related Topics (listed at the end of each Help topic)
  • Search Help function (above the title of each Help topic)
  • Contents tab (top of each Help window)

    Connexion Online Documentation
    Connexion system guides have been updated to reflect system changes, clarify information, and correct errors.

  • On the Connexion documentation page, updated titles have May or June 2003 in the Date Revised column.
  • To view the guide in HTML format, click the title.
  • To view and/or print the guide in PDF format, click the link labeled: (PDF).
  • The Revision History (on page 2 of the PDF) in each updated guide summarizes changes for that document.

    All Connexion system guides (HTML and PDF) are available on the Connexion documentation page:
    <http://www2.oclc.org/connexion/documentation>.

    On the Connexion login screen, under Related Links, click Connexion Documentation.

    To go to the documentation page from within Connexion,
  • On the General tab, click the Documentation button.
    Or
  • On the Connexion home screen (first screen displayed after logon), under Topics, click OCLC Connexion Documentation.


    OCLC Cataloging and Metadata Services [edited]

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    CONNEXION CLIENT FIELD TEST COMMENTS

    As you know, the Connexion client release has been delayed until September/October. The client is currently in field test with 17 sites. Since some of you are anxious to see the client and hear more about it, I asked some of the field test sites if they'd like to share some comments with OCLC-CAT.

    Below are messages from three of the field test members. I hope this information from your colleagues help you to understand more about the client. Believe me when I say we have 17 "very vocal" field test sites participating in this test. Some sites have several catalogers, and they are definitely giving the client software a great test and offering OCLC staff a lot of input!

    Field Test Participant 1

    I'm a Passport user for most of my work except for my theses and dissertations cataloging--for that material I use CatME.

    I've enjoyed using Client for editing copy and creating original records much more than I have ever enjoyed cataloging in CatME. Client has some wonderful capabilities and to name just a few:

    One of the features I've made full use of (because I'm a mouse-user) is creating toolbar icons for many of the edit, search and view menu items. Then I don't have to memorize keymap combinations (or try to read my function key template). Organizing the icons in the order that suits my needs is also a nifty feature and I can move the mouse over a system supplied menu item icon which displays a description bubble of the icon's action if I don't immediately recognize the icon's depiction.

    I'm looking forward to continued improvements and the day when Client is as quick and as stable as Passport.

    Field Test Participant 2

    Background: I learned my first cataloging skills using Passport for DOS, and I was a die-hard Passport for Windows user for many years. When CatME for Windows came out, I didn't see any need to switch over, as Passport seemed to fill my every need-I even tried it a few times, but kept going back to Passport, as I was so used to it that I could do most tasks faster than I could as a fledgling CatME user. Eventually, budget issues made offline cataloging more important than just about anything else, forcing a switch to CatME, and I kicked and screamed the whole way. Once I actually got used to CatME, I occasionally dabbled in Passport, but wondered why I'd taken so long to switch, as CatME seemed to fill my every need, including a few I hadn't known I needed when using Passport-and I can now do my work much faster with CatME than I ever could with Passport. Having started to learn the new Connexion client as part of the field test, I expect a similar experience once the client includes complete CatME functionality-it shows that much promise. I'd jump on the initial release, but with our budget being significantly down from what it was a few years ago, offline functionality is still a primary requirement for me-and that functionality is already on the Connexion release schedule. From what I can tell, unlike many other software manufacturers out there, and with past OCLC releases, this time OCLC is very obviously making a concerted effort to be user friendly and keep any feature loss to an absolute minimum and whenever possible make the "workaround" be better, easier, and more user friendly than the original method.

    As for the issue of change/feature loss, some highlights:

  • Searching in the Connexion client can be done almost exactly as in CatME. It's similar to Passport, except that rather than pressing "HOME" move the cursor to the command line to enter commands, you press F2 to open up a window that offers command line searching. It actually involves fewer keystrokes, as you can leave off "fin" or "sca", and most of the index codes too. (So you don't always have to look up the difference between "pn" and "au"!) If you have employees who are more used to FirstSearch-like searching, Connexion includes that, too. But if you really just want command line searching, you have the option to reduce the search box to just the command line-like area.

  • Search lists in the Connexion client are generally the same as in CatME (except that backgrounds alternate between white and grey, so you can easily & immediately tell where one leaves off and the next starts)

  • Editing in the Connexion client looks and works almost exactly like it does in CatME, which is almost exactly like Passport except that entire records are displayed and accessible at once, rather than the one screen at a time approach Passport takes. The sample images on OCLC's site show grey boxes around everything (which some might consider an unfriendly appearance), but that's really just a color selection issue, like changing the background color, text color, and "unused area" color in Passport-the first thing I did upon firing up Connexion was change that grey and my field background color to be the same, so that it looks just like CatME. Arrow keys still navigate around a record, Enter creates new fields, tab bounces you around a record, and so forth. There's a blue box around whatever field the cursor is in, but after the first record, it's trivial to ignore-and it makes it easy to quickly see exactly which field the cursor is in, especially if it's in the fixed field.

  • The "controlled headings" feature in Connexion (browser & client) is a huge step forward--catalogers can create a hotlink from a bibliographic record to the authority record for a heading, which makes it immediately obvious which headings are authorized and which aren't. (It doesn't mean the headings are the correct choices-so catalogers still have something to do-just that they're valid headings.) Also, once a field is controlled, it's difficult to accidentally edit it via dropping a book on the keyboard or the like. (It's easy to intentionally edit it, though, if you want to.)

  • Some of the new macro commands in the Connexion client add abilities that took long chunks of complicated macro commands to do in Passport or CatME. For example: "Get the contents of the second 650 field."

  • Connexion takes the "MyStatus" feature of CatME one step further: Instead of a single letter "status", you can enter an entire sentence (up to 40 characters), and search for that data-and so call up just certain save file records instead of being limited to only one at a time or the entire list as with Passport.

  • The Connexion client includes CatME's "pin" feature, which allows you to have two (or more) records open at the same time, side by side (if you want; or top/bottom, front/back), and cut/copy/paste between them. It's generally easier than Passport's MRD & TOG commands, once you've done a few this way.

  • Connexion's online save file may internally be a relational database, but from a user's point of view, you can't tell the difference--it works exactly like CatME or Passport (except that since it's not the same database, records saved in the online save file in Connexion can't be retrieved via CatME/Passport and vice versa).

  • Connexion (both browser & client) is being (and will continue to be) regularly and frequently updated in direct response to user requests. If users want something changed or a new feature, OCLC will look at how easy it'd be to add, and if it's not possible, they'll say so and explain why. In this field test, it has been a joy to work with company reps that are this responsive to user input (and actually have the power to get changes onto the schedule).

  • OCLC's online tutorials help a lot with learning to use Connexion, and they've made an extra effort to make the switchover as painless as they can.

  • In many ways, the Connexion client is essentially "CatME 3.0", with some of CatME's rougher spots smoothed out and some of the best features of the Connexion browser added on; if you've gotten used to CatME, moving to Connexion is a cinch. Passport users will have a learning period during which they'll be slower with Connexion than with Passport (but of course--who isn't slower while learning a new system?) but I think that once you've used Connexion for everyday tasks for a couple of months, you'll find that it's generally pretty easy to use.

  • OCLC seems to be defying trends in the software industry by taking the time to make sure each phase of the client release works as well as possible before trying to add in additional complex functions, rather than doing everything once and releasing a bug-filled program.

    Lowlights:

  • Some of the niftiest and most useful functionality (in my opinion) is being held off until later releases-off-line functionality, the ability to apply a single command (like update holdings or export) to an entire list of records at once, and so forth. They'll get done eventually, and I'm content to wait...and take that time to dream up new functionalities to ask OCLC to add...

  • Response time is currently a major issue, just as it is in the browser, but OCLC has made it clear that drastically reducing the response time is a top priority.

  • There is still some Passport functionality that isn't yet scheduled to be part of Connexion. Editing union list holdings, for example. Such is life. (OCLC's looking into possibilities, and for all I know, some things may turn out to be easy enough to be added as part of the current 3-phase roll-out period, but plans apparently haven't congealed enough for any release dates for those functions to be set yet.) For the union list, you will still be able to use Passport for that purpose, even after the "end of life" for cataloging via Passport, until it can be done via some other method, such as Connexion. (So you won't suffer function loss in that particular area, but it might be mildly annoying to flip back & forth between Connexion & Passport for a while.)

    Field Test Participant 3

    I use the client for copy cataloging, and I absolutely love it. I love how it stores my logon information in a place where deleting cookies won't erase it. I love how I don't have to use my mouse, but the option is available if I want to use it. I love how it stores my last search, since most of my searches are by OCLC control number. I love how I can update and produce in one keystroke. From my perspective, it combines the best features of Passport with the best features of web-based Connexion.

    David Whitehair
    Connexion Client Product Manager
    OCLC Cataloging and Metadata Services

    Back to Contents

    UPDATE: CHANGE IN CONNEXION CLIENT AND END OF LIFE FOR PASSPORT/CATALOGING DATES

    Please see the important message below regarding the delay in the release of the OCLC Connexion Windows Client Interface for cataloging.

    Because OCLC does not expect to release the client until September/October, all of the NEBASE workshops on the Windows Client that were scheduled have been canceled. When we have a firm date for the release of the Windows Client, we will announce new dates for NEBASE workshops on the interface. To see the current NEBASE OCLC Workshop schedule, go to </netserv/nebase/oclcworkshops.html>.

    Information about the OCLC Connexion Windows Client interface can be found at <http://www.oclc.org/connexion/features/client/>.

    Also please note that OCLC is extending the end of life date for Passport for Cataloging past the previously announced date of December 31, 2003. There is no specific date set yet, but OCLC will provide at least six months notice of the new date.

    If you have any questions, please feel free to email Christa Burns or phone 800-307-2665 or 402-471-3107.

    Original OCLC Message:

    The Windows-based Connexion client interface is currently in field test, and we have discovered some performance issues related to response time which do not meet the criteria that OCLC cataloging members have come to expect. Improving the response time for both the client and browser interfaces is a top priority for OCLC staff. Because we want you to have a positive experience when you migrate to the client, OCLC has decided to delay the release of the client interface. At this time, we expect the first release of the client (online cataloging functionality without NACO) to be in the September/October 2003 timeframe.

    Since our top priority with both the Connexion client and browser is providing adequate performance levels, we will not be able to move all Passport functionality to Connexion in the schedule previously outlined. As a result, OCLC will extend the life of Passport for cataloging past the previously announced end of life date of December 31, 2003. The new end of life date for Passport for cataloging will depend on the release dates for the first and second phases of the client. OCLC will provide at least a six month notice of the new end of life date.

    At this time, we are focusing on Passport functionality, and we have not finalized the plans for migrating CatME functionality. No end of life date has been set for CatME. The third phase of the client will include offline local files, batch functionality, and other CatME-like features. More information about phase 3 and the end of life for CatME will be announced at a later time.

    If you have questions, please contact one of us:

    Chris Grabenstatter <grabenst@oclc.org> and Jim Simms <jim_simms@oclc.org>, Connexion browser product managers; David Whitehair <david_whitehair@oclc.org>, Connexion client product manager

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission

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    NETSCAPE 6.1 END OF LIFE FOR CONNEXION

    OCLC plans to end OCLC Connexion browser support for Netscape 6.1 on July 20, 2003. At that time, Connexion users, including CatExpress and WebDewey users, will no longer be able to log on using Netscape 6.1. If you are accessing Connexion via this browser version, please upgrade to a higher version as soon as possible.

    Ending support of Netscape 6.1 will enable quicker development of enhancements to the Connexion service because additional programming has often been necessary to support older versions of Netscape. Since special coding to accommodate for Netscape 6.1 will no longer be needed, OCLC will be able to add new and better features to the system. In addition, ending support of Netscape 6.1 will eliminate the system problems that users often experience when using one of these older versions of Netscape.

    Please see the Connexion System Requirements link for additional information about browser support:
    <http://connexion.oclc.org/html/corc/help/en/gs_login_sysreq_hardware_software.html>

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission

    Back to Contents

    REVISED CONNEXION BROWSER TUTORIAL RELEASED

    On behalf of the User Training Development staff, OCLC is pleased to announce a newly-revised "Using OCLC Connexion Browser: An OCLC Tutorial".

    The tutorial can be viewed from the OCLC Training Page at <http://www.oclc.org/support/training/>, from the Connexion Page at <http://www.oclc.org/connexion/>, or from the Related Links section of the
    OCLC Connexion logon screen at <http://connexion.oclc.org>.

    All modules have been revised to incorporate the February 2003 enhancements. A new module that describes controlling headings has been added. This tutorial provides both an introduction to Connexion and a workflow-oriented approach to searching and cataloging. Within the tutorial, you can print review pages and use them later for online practice or as job-aids.

    In addition to the content revisions, the system requirements have been updated to support both the Microsoft Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and Sun Java runtime engine (JRE). The recommended browser is Internet Explorer 5.5 or higher with Small Fonts enabled. The Netscape browser is not supported for these tutorials.

    Kathy Kie
    User Training Development
    OCLC Online Computer Library Center

    Back to Contents

    CURRENT AWARENESS TOOL: OCLC ACCESSIONS LIST SERVICE

    The OCLC Accessions List service is a current awareness tool to inform faculty and/or patrons about new materials in the library. Using the Produce or Alternate Produce command in Connexion, CatME or Passport adds titles to your Accession Lists.

    The electronic list is in an HTML format that can be easily imported into a word processing program for further formatting or loaded directly onto the library's Web pages. Note that the lists do NOT contain diacritics. Several sorting options are available to customize lists. A sample Accessions List, providing examples of the five options for sorting is available via OCLC Product Services Web at <http://www.oclc.org/oclc/menu/prodserv.htm>.

    For more detailed information on the Accessions List Service, go to their site at <http://www.oclc.org/oclc/cataloging/accessions/>.

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission

    Back to Contents

    OCLC PROMPTCAT OPINION POLL

    The OCLC PromptCat service provides automated, reliable copy cataloging for materials ordered through your library's participating material vendors.

    Results from an opinion poll conducted within this past month to libraries that currently use PromptCat indicated that the service improves and streamlines workflow efficiencies including expediting delivery of materials to users. Nearly 50 percent of respondents indicated that the amount of time it takes to put new materials into circulation is faster, as much as 70 percent faster when using PromptCat. Libraries also noted that their backlog of new materials had also been reduced, as much as 70 percent. One library indicated that using PromptCat was a factor in reducing their backlog of new titles from 4 to 5 weeks to less than 48 hours turnaround time. Several respondents indicated that reallocating professional staff to other tasks was a significant advantage to using PromptCat.

    Other comments indicated that the service saves labor, online costs and search costs, particularly for libraries with limited staff. Several respondents also indicated that they initially decided to use PromptCat just an experiment but then realized unforeseen benefits and continued using the service.

    To find your material vendors that OCLC partners with and to see all the record customization options that are available for one price, please visit the PromptCat Web site at <http://www.oclc.org/oclc/menu/prompt.htm>.

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission

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      N3
     

    OCLC Tech Notes   

    OCLC ENDS WINDOWS 98 AND NT SUPPORT

    OCLC discontinued support for Windows 98 and NT 4.0 on June 30, 2003, at the time that Microsoft discontinued support. OCLC expects that applications will continue to work; however, no testing will be completed and no support will be offered for Windows 98 and NT 4.0 after this date. The OCLC Access Suite Applications System Requirements document on the OCLC Web site at <http://www.oclc.org/oclc/menu/suite/systemrequirements.htm> has been updated to reflect this change.

    Christa Burns
    OCLC Member Services Coordinator
    Nebraska Library Commission

    Back to Contents

                    
      

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    N³ (Ncubed) Newsletter is published bimonthly by the Nebraska Library Commission Network Services team. It is the intent of Network Services to promote and support libraries in their cooperative efforts to share resources and information. Circulation: 600. Published on PC software. Editor: Shannon Behrhorst. Word Processing: Jeannette Powell. ISSN 1082-4383 Send mail to: N³ Editor Nebraska Library Commission, The Atrium, 1200 N St., Suite 120, Lincoln, NE, 68508 Phone: 402-471-4031 or 800-307-2665 Fax: 402-471-2083 E-mail: Shannon Behrhorst Home Page: </netserv/netserv.html>