Tuesday 18 August 2009

Changes to library catalogue

We have just installed a new version of the online library catalogue. We've switched to Heritage Online 3.3 from Heritage Online 3.2. Fascinating. Well actually, there are a few nifty new features in the latest version. Here's a quick summary of what's new (in no particular order):
  • Favourite searches - Readers can now save their favourite searches so they are able to run them again by simply clicking a link. Readers must log in to access this feature.
  • Search history - Readers can now view a list of their most recent searches, and re-run them by simply clicking a link. Readers must log in to access this feature.
  • Star ratings - This feature allows readers to rate items using a star rating system. Readers must log in to access this feature.
  • Reader reviews - This feature allows readers to submit reviews for books and other catalogue items. Readers must log in to access this feature. Reviews will be moderated, as we don't want reviews consisting of streams of bad language (unless it's otherwise well-written, and even then...).
  • Reader preferences - Readers can now set their own default Enquiry settings such as the default display format, font size and whether Boolean icons are displayed.
  • Google Preview - Catalogue records now contain links to Google Book Search previews (where these are available). The preview is then available when the catalogue record is viewed using the display format ‘Cover image with dynamically generated information’ (which we'll probably make the default display setting whenever I get round to it)
  • Social bookmarking sites - The Heritage Online screens now contain links to the social bookmarking sites Delicious, Digg, Reddit, Facebook and StumbleUpon.
Any feedback on the new catalogue will be appreciated

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