New Library System

Big changes are coming to the Courtright Memorial Library this spring! We will be introducing a new library management system, Alma, and a new discovery layer, Primo, which will replace our current systems, Sierra and the EbscoHost discovery layer, known commonly as “OneSearch”. These updates couldn't come a moment too soon - our beloved Sierra is more than 30 years old! Alma and Primo will refresh how library users interact with our collection so please bear with us as we take this big step towards improving how we serve you and the Otterbein community. Both systems are features of the Ex Libris platform and are brought to us by the company Clarivate. We'll be keeping you updated with important dates and information throughout the spring semester but feel free to peruse this "New Library System Libguide" to learn more about this migration. Cheers everyone and please join us in welcoming in this new era of Courtright Memorial Library history!

What is the purpose of this change?

The Courtright Memorial Library is dedicated to providing our patrons with outstanding programs and services that make resource access and usage as easy as possible. In that vein, the new system will improve search functionality, retrieval of information, and access to knowledge on the Otterbein University campus as well as facilitate the enhanced integration of services across affiliated OhioLINK member libraries. The current system, Sierra, has been in place for thirty years and the vendor of this outdated system is no longer focused on further developing or updating their product.

What are the benefits of this change?

The new library search interface will change how our existing library search platform/catalog looks and functions. The new interface will allow for better access and management of the Courtright Memorial Library's print, electronic, and digital collections as well as improved discovery of items across all OhioLINK member libraries.

Other enhanced features include:

• Enhanced Experience: Better integration of the library’s collections along with improved and expanded search capabilities.
• Faster: Save time by searching almost all of the library’s collections and beyond in one simple search.
• More Discovery: Explore and learn through automatic recommendations, virtual title browsing, and citation trails.
• Personalized Search Experience: Log in to save your research preferences. Save your items in your account and easily export records to citation management systems.
• On-the-Go: Improved mobile user interface allows researchers to search on their favorite mobile devices.

What does this change mean for Courtright Memorial Library patrons?

All library users will need to adapt their library research methods to using the new interface and its functions. Your library account information will transfer to the new system, but there will be a new online interface for viewing your account. The Courtright Memorial Library website will also update in order to reflect these changes. Although the new system will be fairly easy to use and is user-friendly, library staff is here to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

• Faculty and staff will need to review any library-related urls or links used in preparing coursework in general, and Bright Space course environments specifically. Contact library staff in order to address any needed updates. Also, any requests for Course Reserve/textbook purchases should be submitted in February to ensure availability for the start of fall classes.  
• Students taking classes in Summer 2025 must use the new system. We recommend working with reference librarians during this time of transition with any questions you may have. 
• Everyone is urged to familiarize themselves with the new system and to take advantage of training opportunities when they are available. Starting in July, tutorials and user forums will be planned to make this transition easier.

How will this change impact how I prepare for the final weeks of class?

• There may be service interruptions that could impact how you prepare for finals. Any changes will be announced.
• If you have items on loan from Otterbein or other institutions, please renew them by March 27th to ensure the due dates are updated for the data shift.
• Starting June 4th, 2025, all circulation transactions will be processed using an offline service.  At this time, patron place holds (ordering from other schools) may be reduced or interrupted. Any changes will be announced.
• Your access to electronic resources (EBSCO, ProQuest, databases, etc.) will not be affected until June 18th.