Extending the OPAC: Integrating WorldCat, Maps, and More into ALEPH

Abstract

Mark Dehmlow, Electronic Services Librarian, University of Notre Dame; Aaron Bales, Assistant Engineering Librarian, University of Notre Dame.

At Notre Dame we have begun to incorporate next generation features into our OPAC before we acquire a next generation search system. We designed two tools to extend the functionality of the OPAC. They include links to third-party sites such as WorldCat.org and Google Books, while simultaneously pulling external information from other sites to make it easier for our patrons to find what they are seeking. Designed for all experience levels, this program will provide an overview of the services, how the technology works with a focus on OPAC integration and the ALEPH X-Server, how the services are being used, and what the response has been.