Re: [LM_NET] OPACs

["Hassett, Bob E." <Bob.Hassett@FCPS.EDU>]

In furtherance of the discussion about OPACs of the future, I'm
reposting these comments I received off list from Diane Volzer of
Surpass Software. Diane said she didn't post to the list because she
doesn't want to be perceived as sneaking in with a sales call, but I
asked her if it was OK to quote her because I agree with her general
overview and think it's an important contribution to the discussion. 

<diane volzer>

The search you described sounds much like federated searching, which can
search all of your subscription databases, the local library, your OPAC,
etc. with one search.  That tool doesn't include searching the Internet
(other than to pull up useful web sites you've cataloged), but it does
help pull the other resources together.  Perhaps this is one step in the
right direction?  

You may already be familiar with federated search, but I wanted to write
just in case.  In case you're interested, here is a link to more
information about federated search and Searchpoint, Surpass' federated
search service: http://www.surpasssoftware.com/searchpoint.htm

</diane volzer>

I have never used the product and can't either endorse or criticize it.
Seems worth investigating, though.

---Bob.

/************************************************/
/* Bob Hassett, Head Librarian                */
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See you in the Library!

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