Library system updated

By Grace Camacho, On-Line Forty-Niner

Monday, September 14, 1998

Research has become easier for students at Cal State Long Beach.

The University Library has traded in its dated on-line catalog software for new software that runs more efficiently and is more accessible to students.

The new Coast has many new features, including home access via the Internet and a more comprehensive way to search for topics.

Other features are the ability to access personal library records, renew books, borrow books from other libraries and e-mail research results. In addition, it allows suggestions or comments on the system for the library.

Pat Matzke, database manager for the Library said it has gotten much feedback from users.

"A few people say they still like the old system better than the new one," Matzke said.

Prior to the switch, there were two different systems.

One was the catalog information on books in stock and the other one was for ordering books. Now the systems are combined, Matzke said.

"This new system is more detailed so now we have to be careful what we put in our system because now everyone can see it," Matzke said.

Henry Dubois, associated director of the Library said additional features of the new system include links to related entries in the web-based Brittanica On-line and selecting searches of full text journals.

For more information, one may call (562) 985-1751 or access the Coast Web site, www.coast.csulb.edu.