LINC Directorπs Group Minutes

October 13, 2004

The meeting was called to order at 2:40 p.m. This meeting was held using the WebEx technology. Directors connected to the meeting via a shared web site and called into a conference call. LTLS is experimenting with this technology as a way to reduce travel time. Jan explained the basics of WebEX to familiarize the attendants with the technology.

The minutes from the March 14, 2004 meeting were approved.

LINC Financial Update

Jan reviewed the financial status of the automation equity fund. We have not yet paid for the Horizon software but all hardware has been paid. There is adequate money in the fund to pay the rest of the costs. The current balance is $427,427.51.

LINC Update

Pat gave an update of recent LINC developments. Some enhancements include the addition of format-specific search indexes, slightly redesigned CKO/CKI screens, batch delete functionionality, and improved improvements to serials data issues. Enhancements to LINCPAC were also discussed, including the addition of a pre-defined limit box in the power search screen and the addition of format to title alphabetical screens. Also, the serials now display in iPac in a much more user-friendly format.

Requests have also been improved. Patrons are now able to get materials from their library first. Item-specific holds in the web catalog have been turned off. The number of requests for Champaign has been greatly reduced and the workload has been more efficiently spread out. Pat noted that any library noticing a significant jump in requests should notify her. A new cataloging work form has been created for non-cataloging center to facilitate the addition of equipment. Jan also noted that a new cataloging center head was to begin in the next few weeks.

New Services

Pat gave a short demonstration of the new product called Web Reporter which will facilitate libraries in getting better statistical reports from the Horizon system. The website, logins, and passwords have all been released to the libraries. Pat also gave a demo of WebFeat. This consolidated searching product, available through LINCPac, allows patrons to search single queries across multiple databases.

LTLS has changed the LINC Updateπs format and publication schedule with the hope that it will become a better tool for communication. Additionally, the FAQ page has been updated with the additional of a search feature and a submission form for questions.

LINC Policy Council Update

Jan gave an update of current policies under review with the LINC Policy Council, including the Holds Policy. Jan noted that the number of iTypes must be reduced to facilitate the item specific holds that several libraries want. Volunteers are being sought to serve on a committee to help with this process. Additionally, volunteers are being sought for a committee to discuss enhancements to LINCPac.

The meeting was adjourned at 3:30.