Shared library resources at MSU. MUW offer greater convenience to patrons

Data Line, a publication for Data Research Associates of St. Louis, takes note in its second quarter newsletter that the libraries jointly share an automation system developed by DRA. In fact, according to the publication, the shared system represents “the first Data Research site to operate on Digital's powerful new Alpha AXP hardware platform.” The system has been on-line since January.

Stephen Cunetto, systems administrator at Mitchell Memorial Library, says the Data Research system provides greater flexibility and efficiency.

Sharing the system with Mississippi University for Women offers a financial savings to both institutions, Cunetto explained, and it offers better service to library patrons. "When someone accesses the card catalog at Mitchell Memorial Library, they also get the holdings for MUW," he said. "If a book is not available in our library, it may be available at MUW. Patrons can search the holdings of two libraries at once.

"The system features a number of modules, including our on-line catalog; a circulation module, which allows us to check materials in and out; a cataloguing module; and an acquisitions and serials module."

This fall, the reserve reading room also will be automated using the on-line catalog, he said. Because of the system, the library also will have the ability to send out overdue notices to faculty and staff via electronic mail.

Data Research provides proprietary information services software to libraries and other information providers. The newsletter is distributed to customers and potential customers around the world, said DRA's Wendy Cook, who wrote the MSU-MUW feature.