Libraries Launches New Search Interface as Part of Integrated Library Services Platform
Syracuse University Libraries upgraded to a new cloud-based library services platform that includes an updated Libraries Search interface on June 26, 2024. The Libraries replaced Voyager, its decades-old catalog and back-end inventory system, and the Summon search interface, with Ex Libris’ Alma and Primo VE platform. The new platform modernizes the Libraries’ ability to manage and deliver resources more efficiently, streamlining workflows and facilitating better collaboration among library staff. It also includes Libraries Search, the search-and-discovery interface for users, which makes discovering, organizing, and accessing library resources easier than ever.
Like other R-1 academic libraries, Syracuse University Libraries depends on multiple specialized software processes connected behind the scenes to provide a seamless access to library services and resources across locations and online. The new library services platform supports the underlying library staff work to acquire, describe, catalog, track, and retrieve materials -- everything from purchasing, cataloguing, and checking out books to managing thousands of databases and licensed electronic resources and in-person and online patron interactions to access or borrow materials. All these processes are now fully accessible and integrated with each other and with systems across the university in areas such as IT, security, and budget.
As part of the migration, Libraries Search, the improved online search, catalog, and account management system, has been deployed. It is a modern search interface for users to find essential information critical to their studies, teaching, and research. The new interface allows for better discoverability and access to the Libraries' print, electronic, and physical media collections.
Features of the new Libraries Search include:
- Better integration of the library’s collections
- Less interface complexity with combined, improved and expanded search capabilities.
- Faster searching through a single search box that searches most library resources, including books and eBooks, articles, journals, videos, and more
- Expanded searching with automatic recommendations, virtual title browsing, and citation trails
- Full-text article search
- Improved access to e-resources, including faster activation of new titles
- Personalized search experience for those who log in to save search preferences
- Easy export of records to citation management systems
- Improved mobile user interface
- Ability to borrow video materials through the platform
- Improved efficiency through better request process for interlibrary loan and Library Facility materials.
- Improved discoverability of course reserves
- Improved security and login experience using Single Sign-On (SSO) with NetID
- Improved accessibility
- Ability to add integrations and features over time
Things that remain unchanged with the new Libraries Search include:
- Access to electronic resources that are part of the Libraries’ collections
- Room reservation process
- Ability to conduct both simple and advanced search
- Ability to find only physical collections held by SU Libraries
As the Libraries continue to migrate data into the new system, processing of requests for new books, videos or other resources added to the collection is on hold until August 1, 2024. Users can still submit item requests to subject librarians or via the Suggest a Title form, but requests will not be processed until August 1.
With the new Libraries Search, discovery of electronic resources may not be immediately available, as resources are being manually migrated to the new system. Access to electronic resources is still available, and users are advised to use the Database Menu to access online content. Users can also contact the Libraries for help via phone, email, chat or in-person (https://library.syracuse.edu/get-help/). For additional search strategies and information, users can visit Libraries Search Information. There is also a form for users to provide feedback about Libraries Search.
For those with a proxy request enabling another SU-affiliated individual to borrow materials on their behalf, request must be resubmitted via the Patron Proxy form. The link is also available on library.syracuse.edu/borrowing-process-policies/#BorrowingPolicy.