Global Currents

VuFind is a new alternative interface for the online catalog at Illinois as well as throughout the state system called I-Share. You will find a link to it on the Library Gateway page, or you can access it directly at http://vufind.carli.illinois.edu/vf-uiu. Members of the statewide system (CARLI), which includes the University of Illinois, can search and request items from the catalog. Individuals who are not associated with the system can search for items, but should go to their local librarian to request materials.

VuFind provides what librarians refer to as a faceted search. This leads to more flexibility in discovering resources that you might find of interest. If you go to the Advanced Search, you will see the multiple options for targeting your search as well. This interface is more accessibility compliant for use by screen readers and other adaptive technologies. You can check on item availability and place requests from this interface, and in the case of newer material you should be able to view the cover and the table of contents for the item. Sometimes reviews and descriptions of the works are also available. Another special feature of the interface is the ability to tag titles as favorites.

The product is still in development, and the Next Gen Catalog group at the Library is interested in any feedback you can provide on what you like or dislike in this interface. Please click on the green highlighted link on the opening page and send your comments and suggestions.

For more information about VuFind go to:
http://www.library.uiuc.edu/catalog/vufind/
http://www.carli.illinois.edu/mem-prod/I-Share/opac/vufind-faq/vufind-faq-choose.html
http://www.carli.illinois.edu/mem-prod/I-Share/opac/vufind-faq.html