St. Louis, Missouri, August 16, 1993 -- Data Research has announced the availability of Z39.50 access to periodical index and database products from Information Access Company (IAC) and University Microfilms International (UMI).
Any library with Z39.50-compliant client software -- including clients provided by vendors other than Data Research -- can provide transparent access to a selection of databases from the two providers using the user-familiar screens and commands of the library's host system.
The client library can provide unlimited access to the desired databases by purchasing an Open DRANET subscription and a subscription to the desired database and by completing the standard on-line subscription arrangement with the database provider. Non-Data Research libraries can access this service via the Internet or by purchasing a dedicated Open DRANET telecommunications connection from Data Research.
In addition to providing a single, user-familiar point of access to diverse databases, this Z39.50 access eliminates the need for local libraries to load, maintain and update periodical indexes on-site. The databases offered via network access by Data Research are currently updated weekly and will be updated daily in the near future.
For libraries with current access to the Internet, Z39.50 access to the databases is available on a 30-day free trial basis. Interested libraries should contact Data Research's Product Manager for Networking Services, Patrick Gant, at the address Patrick@dranet.dra.com on the Internet, or by phone at (800) 325-0888.
Data Research, headquartered in St. Louis, is a leading systems integrator, providing its own proprietary information services software as well as third-party software and hardware, networking services and other related services to libraries and other information providers. Data Research currently has some 300 system installations worldwide serving more than 1000 individual libraries.