Making the Federated Switch – From Metalibrary to WebFeat

Presenters: Megan Coder and Colleen Lougen (New Paltz)

Abstract:

The Sojourner Truth Library decided to switch its federated search product in the fall of 2006 from Ex Libris’ Metalibrary to WebFeat. A working group of librarians discussed and evaluated federated search options before coming to a decision. WebFeat was chosen because it is quicker, more intuitive, requires less staff time to customize and maintain, and meets the needs of our campus community. We will share how this decision was made, how WebFeat was received on campus, the management and custom-ization of WebFeat, and how we promote and teach this tool.