February 24, 2010 -- NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ. Bowker, a business unit of ProQuest, has released a new version of Syndetics, a resource valued by librarians for its ability to enhance the bibliographic content found in library online catalogs. The new Syndetics Plus combines more than 11 million content enrichment elements with advanced widget technology to seamlessly integrate this data within a library’s OPAC. As a result, using and accessing Syndetics’ data is now easier for libraries and their customers.
"A library’s catalog is the primary entry point for most library users… users who are used to the experience of commercial Web sites," said Melissa Kuzma, Product Manager for Syndetic Solutions. "Syndetics Plus gives libraries a flexible, simple way to integrate new data elements that deliver better, more informative results and create a significantly better experience with the catalog."
Syndetics Plus includes a simple, easy-to-use widget that automatically integrates Syndetics data -- descriptive information and cover images relating to videos, DVDs, CDs, audio books, and all types of books from juvenile chapter books to conference proceedings.
The widget allows for customized implementation that makes the Syndetics content neatly match the look and feel of the OPAC. Libraries can also choose where on the page to place each content element. "This means the library’s catalog pages not only look better, but work better as Syndetics data is integrated and visible right there in the full record display," said Ms. Kuzma.
Syndetics’ long tradition of consistent, innovative growth will continue with Syndetics Plus. It currently provides a range of 25 data elements, with new options continually being added. Various elements of content are added weekly for more than 100,000 new titles each year. Much of this data can’t be found from any other source.
To learn more visit http://www.bowker.com/syndetics/plus/.
About Bowker
Bowker is the world's leading provider of bibliographic information management solutions designed to help publishers, booksellers, and libraries better serve their customers. The company is focused on developing various tools and products that make books easier for people to discover, evaluate, order, and experience, as well as providing services to publishers that help them better understand and meet the interests of readers worldwide. Bowker is a member of the ProQuest family of companies and is headquartered in New Providence, N.J., with additional operations in England and Australia. For more information, please visit www.bowker.com.
