The UGA Libraries is getting a new online catalog system May 26. The new GIL-Find will combine the best features of both the current GIL-Find and GIL Classic at the same URL: http://gilfind.uga.edu.
There will be little interruption in service, but users should note these dates:
• The deadline for submitting summer reserves lists is April 25;
• GIL Express will be on hiatus May 5-30;
• Ordering of new materials for library collections is on hold until after May 26.
During this time, users are encouraged to use Interlibrary Loan to get books and articles. Patrons can continue to request materials to be ordered for the collection and the request will be held until ordering is resumed.
“Favorites” saved in a current GIL-Find account will not automatically migrate to the new system. Save them by email or into EndNote before May 21.
“When the current online system was installed 18 years ago, libraries had almost solely physical items,” said Jason Battles, deputy university librarian and director of libraries technology. “The new system will allow us to better manage our print and digital collections, improve efficiency through shared services across the University System of Georgia and expand our assessment capabilities.”
All USG libraries are making the switch, and Georgia Tech, along with Emory University, have completed their conversions. The new catalog system is from Ex Libris, a major library vendor with a long history of working with the UGA and USG libraries.
With the new system, patrons can use one catalog to search for resources in different formats—no need to check a separate system for online journals; use one catalog to search both UGA and USG collections; use your MyID to log into your account and request GIL Express books, review what you have checked out and save favorites; and browse lists of books by subject, author, title and more.
Most books are automatically renewed twice before having to be returned or renewed in person at the library.
Information, including dates and times for orientation sessions in June and August, will be posted on the UGA Libraries blog at http://www.libs.uga.edu/news.
