By Bonnie Robinson
The OCLC WebExpress service, which will provide an easy-to-use integrated gateway to
library resources on the Web, is expected to be introduced in the second quarter of 2000.
WebExpress is intended to increase the visibility of the library as a source of information
for its community.
WebExpress will allow libraries to combine OCLC and non-OCLC resources they have
selected into a single locally customized interface. Users will be able to simultaneously
search all their library's resources with one Web-based search interface. The new service
will gather the library's full range of resources together so users can access both remote
and local information resources via the single interface. These resources can include the
OCLC FirstSearch service, non-OCLC Z39.50 databases and local information such as
the library catalog. Abstract, index, full-text and print resources can be included, from
within the region or from around the world. The resources can be linked to resource-
sharing options.
An administrator's interface will include wizards to make it easy to create access to
information resources, group them in logical ways for users and link them to other
resources. The administrator can also choose the look and feel of the public interface,
build paths or links between remote and local resources and add messages to assist local
users.
The administrator's interface will also connect to the WebExpress Service Center, a Web
site providing up-to-date information. The service center will make WebExpress an
evolving, ongoing service instead of a fixed software product. This central resource will
be active from initial inquiry through ongoing use. The WebExpress Service Center will
disseminate new and updated OCLC resources as well as other Z39.50 resources from
organizations around the world, allowing libraries to remain current and state-of-the-art.
