SUNY Cobleskill's New Library Management System
In June 2019, SUNY Cobleskill's Van Wagenen Library transitioned to a new web-based software package selected and adopted by librarians across the entire SUNY system. This new Library Management System, developed by ExLibris--the company who created the catalog system we previously used--integrates multiple library functions including our search engine, our circulation and patron account records, interlibrary loan processing, and multiple "behind-the-scenes" tasks completed by librarians and library staff. The new system offers a number of helpful new features and capabilities without sacrificing the most popular aspects of our previous system. This guide will introduce the new system to you and highlight some of its most useful features.
Questions & Answers
Why are we changing to this new system?
The contract for our previous library management system was ending and, rather than simply renewing our old contract, SUNY decided to consider proposals from multiple vendors to see if a better option was available. After detailed consideration by representatives from all SUNY libraries, this system was selected as the best option going forward.
What happened to my library account information?
Your library account information (including lists of checked-out items, due dates, and any outstanding fines/fees) have been transferred to the new system. You won't need to set up a new account or get a new card.
Will I still be able to access the same databases I used before?
Yes. We still have access to all the same resources and content as before.
Will I have to submit new requests for items I had previously placed on reserve?
If you submitted a reserve request indicating you wanted your materials to remain on reserve through Fall 2019, library staff will make sure those materials are accessible. If you have a new request, you can use our online Reserves Request form to submit it.
I saved articles to my EBSCOhost folder on the old system. Will they still be accessible?
The articles will still be accessible, but you will lose access to the EBSCOhost folder system on September 30, 2019. Be sure to download any records before then. (The new system has its own "saved records" feature you may want to use instead.)
I hate change! Can't I just keep using the old system instead?
The old search engine and catalog system will remain accessible until September 30, 2019. After that, the new system will be your only option. (Give it a try. It's easy to navigate and has lots of benefits over the old system.)
Who should I contact if I have questions about the new system?
Any SUNY Cobleskill librarian would welcome your questions.
Feedback
Do you have questions about the new system you'd like us to answer? If so, let us know using this feedback form.
New & Improved
Our new system comes with many advanced features and user-friendly tools not available in our previous system. Here are a few things worth checking out:
System Integration
System IntegrationSearching for an article, renewing a book, and making an ILL request used to require you to visit three different platforms. Our new system allows you to do all of these things in one place.
"My Account" Options
"My Account" OptionsLogged-in users can renew or request items, save searches or records, review search histories, and learn about blocks, fines, fees, or messages all in one convenient interface. To learn more, check out our "My Account & My Favorites" tutorial.
Citation Trails
Citation TrailsGet single-click access to a list of sources your article cites and/or sources citing your article.
Virtual Browse
Virtual BrowseSee the titles and covers of the books on the shelf next to the one you looked up.
Simplified Interlibrary Loan Requests
Simplified Interlibrary Loan RequestsSearch other libraries' collections and expedite ILL processing. (And find out whether a nearby SUNY institution has the book you're looking for.)
Collection Location Limiters
Collection Location LimitersLimit search results by where they are in the library (e.g. Juvenile Book stacks, Reference, Popular Reading, Special Collection/Archives).