Library patrons at Texas State use the Start Your Research search tool on the library’s website an average of 84,000 times a month during the fall and spring semesters. On the surface, it seems simple enough, but behind the scenes there is a complex web of systems and administrators that work together to ensure that library patrons can discover the resources they need for their research.
Later this month, Texas State’s libraries will migrate to a new, modern library service platform called FOLIO that will serve as the back-end for the Start Your Research search tool and the library catalog.
Here are answers to questions you may have about our new system:
Will this change how I do my research?
No, the EBSCO Start Your Research tool is not changing and will appear and work in the same way it currently does. The transition should be seamless, and many patrons will not notice that a change has occurred. One new feature will allow patrons to place holds and view their account when using the Start Your Research tool by clicking on the place request button.
The library catalog is where you will likely notice changes. It will look different.
Current Catalog Search Result View
New Catalog Search Result View
Here are some of the new features for the library catalog:
- You will be able to use the My Bookshelf tool from the catalog to see what materials you have checked out, the status of anything you have put on hold, and any outstanding fines owed.
- When you select an item in the catalog, the Browse This Shelf feature will show you other items with call numbers that would place them near the item you are viewing, including eBooks, to allow for some virtual browsing.
- We anticipate that the user experience will continue to evolve over the next year as new features and integrations roll out that will improve our discovery systems.
Will there be any service disruptions while the transition is taking place?
We will be bringing the new system online during interim, May 21-23. During this period, you will still be able to check out materials in person at the Alkek or RRC Libraries. However, you will not be able to place holds or renew materials online until the new system goes live on May 23. In addition, the self-checkout machines in the Alkek Library will be out of commission for an undetermined period of time beginning on May 21.
Where can I direct questions if I encounter a problem with the new library discovery system?
Please use our Report a Problem With an Online Resource form if you encounter any issues or need help with our new system.
This article was contributed by UL Marketing & Communications Coordinator Debbie Pitts.