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WorldCat Local : WorldCat Local "quick start"

WorldCat Local "quick start"

What is WorldCat Local "quick start"?

WorldCat Local "quick start" provides a single search result that delivers your library's resources and those of the world's libraries. It is now included in a subscription to WorldCat on FirstSearch at no additional charge. This is the first step to the first Web-scale, cooperative library service. WorldCat Local connects users' search experience with library management systems—today, that means WorldCat, your catalog, local availability and resource sharing. Soon, OCLC will take the next steps and pilot Web-scale delivery and circulation, license management, print and electronic acquisitions, and more.

What do you get?

WorldCat Local "quick start" offers libraries:

  • Display of a local library's holdings first in search results, followed by the holdings of other WorldCat libraries
  • Local branding of a WorldCat search box, URL and user interface
  • Links to an existing OpenURL resolver for access from the over 58 million article citations in WorldCat.org to the online full text to which libraries subscribe
  • Integration of existing OCLC delivery/interlibrary loan services (WorldCat Resource Sharing, ILLiad)
  • Interoperability with a single local library catalog for real-time item availability information and place holds
  • Access to the same social networking tools available on WorldCat.org

WorldCat Local provides libraries with the following additional functionality:

  • Group-level searching
  • Interoperability with a second integrated library system (ILS)
  • Additional integration of your library's print, electronic and digital materials, making it an even better way to help users find exactly what they want

Please note: Availability of interoperability features will vary by ILS. Interoperability is available now for most libraries with the following integrated library systems and methods: Ex Libris Aleph (Z39.50), Ex Libris Voyager, SirsiDynix Horizon, SirsiDynix Unicorn and Symphony, Innovative Interfaces Millennium and INNOPAC.

Libraries with other Web-accessible ILSs will benefit from features such as local branding, ranked search results and links to existing services now. Expanded access to real-time availability interoperability will be added in phases, beginning with a prominent link to library catalogs later in 2009 and a method for libraries to create their own interoperability with WorldCat in 2010.

Want to learn more?

WorldCat Local "quick start" is an exciting product that can greatly simplify and improve how your users find and access materials. Getting the most out of the service can require attention to some very specific details. To learn more about how you can make the process as fast and efficient as possible:

  • Read our Frequently Asked Questions document.
  • Sign up for one of our Webinars. We're offering:
    • Introduction to WorldCat Local "quick start"
    • Ready, set, go! Tips for a successful WorldCat Local introduction
    • How to Customize WorldCat Local
    • Batchload Solutions for WorldCat Local "quick start"
  • Read the OCLC Service Configuration Guide to learn how to configure products and services that you subscribe to on the WorldCat.org platform.
  • Take a look at what WorldCat Local looks like and how it's working for Macalester College or the University of Delaware Library.

    Note:     These two libraries subscribe to WorldCat Local. While their sites include some functionality not in WorldCat Local "quick start," they do provide a general example of how the service works. This Web site will be updated with examples of WorldCat Local "quick start" following implementation by early users of the new service. Please direct questions about WorldCat Local "quick start" to OCLC at worldcatlocal@oclc.org.
  • Watch a video of implementation and use experiences at active WorldCat libraries.
  • Sign up for e-mail updates about WorldCat and related services.

For specific questions about your institution and WorldCat Local "quick start," contact your OCLC service representative directly, or by e-mail at worldcatlocal@oclc.org.

Get started today

If you already subscribe to WorldCat on FirstSearch and catalog with OCLC, complete the registration form to initiate your WorldCat Local "quick start," or read more about how you can prepare for WorldCat Local "quick start" by visiting the welcome page.