Library information provider OCLC, US, has introduced a new OCLC WorldShare Metadata collection management functionality. This is projected to offer more efficient ways for libraries to manage electronic resources and improve user access to valuable collections.
WorldShare Metadata collection management automatically delivers WorldCat MARC records for electronic materials and ensures the metadata and access URLs for these collections are continually updated. This is expected to provide library users with better access to these materials, and library staff with more time for other priorities.
OCLC worked with libraries in North America to beta test the new functionality as part of OCLC WorldShare Metadata services. Pilots of the new functionality are planned in different regions around the world. Libraries use the collection management functionality to define and configure e-book and other electronic collections in the WorldCat knowledge base.
They then automatically receive initial and updated, customised WorldCat MARC records for all e-titles from one source. With the combination of WorldCat knowledge base holdings, WorldCat holdings and WorldCat MARC records, library users gain access to the same set of titles and content in WorldCat Local, WorldCat.org, the local library catalogue or other discovery interfaces.
OCLC WorldShare Metadata collection management services are available to all libraries with an OCLC cataloging subscription and work with other components of OCLC WorldShare Management Services as well as other library systems.
OCLC is conducting free webinars to explain more about the new functionality. Those who are interested can plan to attend one of the webinar sessions which are scheduled on September 18 and September 20 at 3:00 – 4:00 pm Eastern Time.
