There's been some recent buzz about OCLC's offer for a free ILS (integrated library system - the catalog and circulation system) to libraries that subscribe to First Search. First, if you have the TexShare databases, you subscribe to First Search so your library is eligible.
According to the OCLC Web site, "WorldCat Local 'quick start' offers libraries a locally branded catalog interface and simple search box that present localized search results for print and electronic content along with the ability to search the entire WorldCat database and other resources via the Web."
In other words, their new catalog/circulation system would have a local look with local records and also offer access to all MARC records through WorldCat. It offers a simple search box along with access to all of WorldCat and their discovery tools. I can't find anything about advanced searching capability.
Now this is where I kept wondering what the catch was. This is it:
You are eligible to receive the free ILS, however, your local MARC records must exist in WorldCat before this works. And it costs money to put your MARC records in WorldCat annually.
If you already have your records in WorldCat, this may be a deal for you.
If you are still interested in this offer, here are a few sites:
Introduction to "quick start" http://www.oclc.org/worldcatlocal/quickstart/default.htm
FAQ to "quick start" http://www.oclc.org/worldcatlocal/quickstart/faqs/default.htm
Webinar link http://www.oclc.org/worldcatlocal/support/registration.htm
Video from ALA Midwinter where OCLC staff discuss the implementation http://www.oclc.org/multimedia/2009/alamw2009_worldcatlocal.htm
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