FCLA is excited to announce the first prototype for a UBorrow system is available in Test. Using our locally-developed Mango user interface and Aleph’s ILL module, testers can submit a request for a known item available at another SUL. This is the first step in an iterative and incremental process to develop an unmediated borrowing system among the SULs. We are continuing to learn more about what is possible, and look forward to feedback from our users.

Highlights

• Patrons identify their home institution using a "Where are you from" feature, enabling them to sign in to the Mango Union Catalog for requests and other services. Once a patron has logged in, they do not need to login again during the same session.
• A single "Get It" button in the Mango Union Catalog presents the patron with the most appropriate option: directing them to the shelf for a locally available item, placing a UBorrow request for items available elsewhere in the SULS, or presenting an ILLiad login form for items currently unavailable anywhere within the SULs
• UBorrow requests are passed into the Aleph ILL module, where they are automatically located and forwarded to the potential supplier(s).
• Pull slips and request reports are automatically generated on the lending side, so staff can quickly retrieve items for shipping.
• Once received at the borrowing library, the patron is automatically notified and a hold slip is generated for the item. The patron can check out a UBorrow item just as they would any other item at their library.
• The item is tracked throughout the process, on both the lending and borrowing sides, from request through return. Patrons can also determine current status, through a single Requests link in their Mango account.

Current Status

• Initial setup has focused on inter-institutional requests in Test between three SULs: FGCU, FSU and UCF.
• Work continues on setting up initial policies and checks, improving the locate function, and customizing printouts / emails.
• Documentation and training materials are being developed.
• Setup of the remaining 8 SULs in Test continues

Next Steps

• Julia Zimmerman, CSUL representative directing the UBorrow Pilot Project, is identifying representatives from the three initial libraries to serve as testers and development partners for UBorrow.
• Introductory sessions using Elluminate will be scheduled with various stakeholders.
• A face-to-face training workshop will be conducted with the testing partners.

Background on the project