Kathy Blough

Bio: Kathy Blough is an academic researcher. The author has contributed to research in topics: Scale (ratio). The author has an hindex of 1, co-authored 1 publications receiving 3 citations.

Improving Library Resource Discovery: Exploring the Possibilities of VuFind and Web Scale Discovery in a Consortial Environment

Abstract: Like many libraries, the Bridge Consortium (the shared library of Carleton College and St. Olaf College) had outgrown the existing catalog and needed to find an improved search interface for collections. Seeking something that would work with the existing Innovative Interfaces Inc.'s Millennium integrated library system, researchers explored everything from catalog enhancements provided by Innovative Interfaces to a completely separate, Web-scale discovery tool. For the past year, they worked to implement VuFind as a catalog overlay, continually customizing and enhancing it based on user feedback. At the same time, they continued to research a broader solution and recommended a discovery tool to their consortium leadership group that they believe will redefine student research at their colleges and give new shape and direction to their consortium. By thinking of discovery as more than a product and staggering their implementation, they were better able to meet their consortium's needs. This article details their evaluation process and provides reflection on the decisions made. Many libraries are considering Web-scale discovery products. As part of the process, they confront questions about open source tools, Web site redesigns, incorporating user feedback, and consortial needs. The researchers hope to contribute to these libraries' processes by outlining their process and considerations, and what they learned along the way to arrive at their current solution.

Federated Search: Solution or Setback for Online Library Services

Abstract: Through the perspectives of more than 30 authors of 21 articles, this work attempts to present a balanced view of federated searching and its effects on the library world and the library user. The ...

Customizing an Open Source Discovery Layer at East Carolina University Libraries: The Cataloger's Role in Developing a Replacement for a Traditional Online Catalog

Abstract: Open source discovery layers offer the ability to extensively customize every aspect of the search experience for a local user population. However, discovery layers have primarily been discussed in the professional literature in terms of the installation or configuration process. In this paper, three catalogers present a case study of an open source discovery layer implementation with a focus on the problems and solutions from the cataloging perspective.

Implementation of Vufind Application As Web Scale Discovery Services To Improve Easiness Access of Open E‐Resources: Case Study At University of Jember Library

Abstract: The increase number and vast of information resources in library, both internal or external resources, encourage University of Jember library to use an aplication base on Web Scale Discovery Services (WSDS) for managing open access e‐Resources. This study provide an overview of implementation open source Vufind discovery tools in order to give new e‐resources search Services at University of Jember library, so user able to access various open access databases in one indexer portal. This research uses descriptive qualitative method, with a case study approach. Data was collected by observation, interview, and document tracing methods. In this study, interviews were conducted informally, so that researchers and informants were in a natural situation. Meanwhile, data testing was carried out using the triangulation method. As results, the technical problems in implementing Vufind are in harvesting and editing metadata, because there is a lot of differences of metadata form myriad databases. Other research result show that Implementation Vufind Web Scale Discovery Services at University of Jember Library is very useful in facilitating access to various databases open access e‐resources