Filter by Availability Now in LibrarySearch
Well library fans, it’s been two and a half years since we migrated to our new library system Alma Primo. We hope you’ve been enjoying the improved services so far! Not only did it give LibrarySearch a much-needed face-lift, our new system centralizes physical and digital resources.
As with all changes, nothing is ever perfect from the start. That’s why the Middlebury Libraries Discovery Committee works to improve public-facing access points for library resources. If you’ve noticed an abundance of e-books we don’t have access to in your search results, you’re not alone. In an effort to present as many relevant resources as possible and promote a wide range of perspectives beyond our collections, the default for LibrarySearch shows even materials you’d have to request via Interlibrary Loan to access. That’s frustrating if you’re trying to find sources in a hurry, and it decenters the materials we have access to.
Therefore, the Discovery Committee was tasked with evaluating filtering options to change the way sources are presented. After completing a usability study comparing different filters, soliciting feedback from our community, and evaluating pros and cons with our library directors, we launched a new search filter this June!
You can now search holdings in Middlebury and partner libraries as the default, filtering out sources that are unavailable. Then, if you need to expand your search, you can widen the net to include resources beyond Middlebury and partner libraries.
Looking for more tips for using LibrarySearch? Check out our guide. As always, if you need help finding resources you can get in touch with a librarian. And if you have questions about this change, or there are more changes you’d like to see to help the library better serve you, let the Discovery Committee know!