A New Online Library Catalog - Aleph

Library System Change

The libraries of all eleven state state universities are transitioning to a new library system from Ex Libris, called Aleph. This change affects all aspects of library operations: ordering, paying for, and checking in materials; cataloging, circulation, overdues, binding, etc. May 2, 2005 is the date FSU begins to use the new system.

The Aleph online catalog

The new online catalog is quite different from the WebLUIS catalog that we have been using. It's a good idea to take a few minutes to get oriented to this new view of the library. When you first connect to the FSU Libraries Catalog you are presented with the Basic Search Screen for searching the FULL CATALOG.
(Options to Searching the FULL CATALOG: You may choose to search only the subset JOURNALS/SERIALS Catalog, or one of the other available subsets. See Change Databases for other subset options.)

Search for Keyword(s)

Type one or more words into the Search For Keyword(s): text box (only records with ALL the words will be retrieved, i.e., the default operator is AND).

• Use when you are looking for a topic but don't know an exact subject heading.
• Use when you are looking for a specific work and know main words in the title but not the exact title.
• Use when you are looking for a specific work and know the author's last name and what it is about.
• Use when you know the last names of two or more authors or editors of a work.
• When you need more precise searching with keywords use the Advanced Search page.

Browse Organized Lists

Type up to 69 characters in the Browse Organized Lists: text box. The first 69 characters are considered in a browse, any additional characters are disregarded.

• Use when you know the exact title or the beginning of the title.
• Use when you know at least the author's last name and first initial.
• Use when you know an exact subject heading and want to find works on that topic.
  NOTE that MEDICAL subjects are listed separately. Only a search using "Subjects, Medical" will search ALL of the resources at the College of Medicine Library.
• Use when you know the call number of a work and want to find other works with similar numbers.

Finding More Help with Aleph

FSU Libraries are in the process of developing more detailed help pages that are customized for FSU. Until these FSU pages are ready, the pages developed by the state universities in Florida that transitioned in 2004 will help for performing other functions such as advanced searching and online renewals.
They are (links go directly to Aleph help pages):

• University of Florida
• University of North Florida
• University of West Florida

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