New OCLC Connexion Is
the Future of OCLC Cataloging

At the end of June, OCLC introduced OCLC Connexion, a new World Wide Web interface to the OCLC Cataloging service.

OCLC Connexion is accessible via your Web browser and includes a new customizable interface, which integrates functionality previously provided through OCLC CORC and OCLC CatExpress.

OCLC Connexion offers many features that promise to increase library staff efficiency and save time.

• Improved authority control allows headings in bibliographic records to be linked to their associated authority records and updated automatically when the linked authorities change.
• Keyword searching of the OCLC Authority File is available.
• Searching may be performed via a familiar "command line" for users accustomed to OCLC Passport or Cataloging Micro Enhancer or via drop down indexes.
• Record size limits no longer exist, allowing larger bibliographic records to be created.
• Save file enhancements include the ability to search using indexes, as well as setting user-defined statuses on individual saved records.
• Display of holdings information is simplified and provides a pop-up box with the full institution name for each OCLC symbol.
• For cataloging electronic resources, OCLC Connexion allows automated metadata extraction, saving time and keystrokes.
• Options to customize the interface include the ability to save an authorization number with or without the password for automatic logon, make changes to the navigation bar, set the session timer, control record display and redefine keystroke shortcuts and mapping.
• For users of the CatExpress option within the interface, record export is an option.

OCLC Connexion also allows you to access other OCLC services to which your library may subscribe, such as WebDewey, the OCLC Automated Collection Analysis Service and the OCLC Digital Archive.

OCLC plans to enhance Connexion quarterly, so look for more features to this new cataloging interface in the future. In mid-2003, a Windows client will be introduced that will not rely on the Web and will offer additional functionality such as the ability to create macros, offline local files, batch processing and advanced label production.

With OCLC Passport software scheduled to be retired on December 31, and no retirement date for Cataloging Micro Enhancer, CJK or Arabic software, your library can migrate to the new interface over a significant period of time. But you should begin planning for it now.

Pricing for cataloging functions in OCLC Connexion is identical to that of cataloging with Passport or Cataloging Micro Enhancer.

For more information and suggestions on migrating, please point your browser to www.oclc.org/connexion/migrate/, or contact Linda Gonzalez, Regan W. Harper, Ann Morrow Schwab or Rosario Garza at BCR, (303) 751-6277 or (800) 397-1552. Updates and enhancements to OCLC Connexion will be announced at www.oclc.org/connexion/.

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February 27, 2008
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