Beyond the Typical Library OPAC
April 21st, 2005I love library OPACs that go beyond the typical boring “here’s your book.” Ever use the public computers at Borders? If so, you know what I mean. If not, check them out as they may give you some ideas as to how to improve your public display.
A perfect example of going beyond the OPAC comes from the North Shore Libraries in New Zealand. Mike Copley, Assistant Librarian and Web Developer sent in a note showing off his OPAC display. They have added two features that I absolutely love:
1) A “dynamic” library map that shows where the book is located.
2) A “book reviews” link which takes the user to book reviews on their library web site.
Take a look at a sample OPAC result.
I’m sure that there are more libraries with similar initiatives. I heard from a few Texas librarians who have done book reviews on their web site but did not link to them from their OPAC. I’d love to start a list or directory of these “enhanced” library OPACs. Send yours in (stevenmcohen [at] gmail [dot] com and put “Library OPAC” in the subject line) and tell me what makes it so special. Maybe we can build a wiki or a blog based around this topic…
March 31st, 2007 at 8:51 am
[...] Library Stuff 得知紐西蘭的 North Shore Libraries 網站上有提供 book reviews，book [...]