Primo system helps users search more efficiently
This summer, Murray Library migrated to a new system called Primo. The system adds a “discovery” layer to the search experience for users who are looking for library print books, ebooks, online journal articles and streaming. All it takes is one search on a topic, and the results will integrate to include everything—a timesaving alternative to searching in individual databases.
“Our system previously was a 20-year-old system, which was more print-based,” said Linda Poston, director of the library.
In the next six months, the library also will roll out a new online tool called CloudSource OA, available on the library website for students and faculty to quickly search open-access resources. The research content can be used or adapted freely. Faculty then can use these resources for course textbooks—saving students on textbook costs.
“Open access is a big wave for libraries,” said Poston. “The purpose is for faculty to benefit from what other faculty have written. It’s online. It’s digital. This is the coming thing. This is to help the students.”
What else has changed?
The biggest shift in libraries everywhere involves going from print and physical items to online and digital. For Messiah, that means offering 600,000+ ebooks and other digital resources along with developing online library instruction modules for emerging programs.
The way librarians help users has changed, too. Poston encourages students to familiarize themselves with the library and its website.
“Make a friend of the librarian assigned to your area,” she said. “We have chat, which is different than it used to be years ago. Students can get research assistance online, which is much different than having librarians staff a research desk next to the circulation desk.”
Upcoming events
Pandemic protocols pending, the library is tentatively planning popular events such as Live Clue and mini golf. This spring’s Human Library event—in which participants “check out” a person, who, in turn, provides personal story—was held via Zoom for the first time.
“We are adding bingo,” said Poston, “which proved to be a success during the pandemic.”
Building bridges
Poston says she oversees staffing, the library’s budget, strategic planning of resources and stays abreast of the user experience, among many other things in her role. Most of all, though, she says she tries to connect with others and serve as a bridge builder.
“I advocate for the library to students, faculty and administration and connect the library staff with the big picture and strategic plan of the University as a whole,” she said.
—Anna Seip