2014 Charleston Library Conference

Much time and focus for libraries is often spent on improving discovery tools and how users can search and navigate results. But in an era where discovery of content is relatively easy, libraries need to be aware that linking - the process of fulfillment and delivery of desired content - is perhaps more critical to users’ research needs. If links work, users continue to leverage the resources they are using and are satisfied to use the library more frequently. If links fail, and they do, there are real consequences for libraries including losing users’ trust in the library as research gateway. Panelists will discuss usability challenges of current generation link resolvers and will share their experiences working with a link resolver vendor to positively transform the linking experience for their users while at the same time offering the library a way to be more embedded in the researcher’s workflow. Beyond discussing the importance of successful linking and the impact that linking has on collection usage, panelists will show how the link resolver can be used to keep users engaged with the library – even if links fail. This session will highlight some of the most significant advances in linking technology in more than 12 years and how these changes are not only increasing usage of library resources but also improving users’ perception of the library.

Panelists will share experiences with usability and beta tests, real world feedback centered around linking to content as well as results of adopting specific technologies/strategies to ensure that the concepts of discovery and linking are treated equally within the library.

Session Objective:To educate librarians on the impacts of link resolvers, the latest link resolver technologies and the importance of improving the linking user experience to provide access to library collections and resources. Attendees will learn strategies to ensure linking is evaluated within the scope of Discovery, how to reduce barriers to accessing resources and how to improve the end-user experience. Audience participation via Q&A.