The Library Systems Division provides solutions that automate standard library functions such as circulation, cataloging, public access, acquisitions, and serials control. During Fiscal 1997, Geac continued to strengthen its position as a worldwide supplier of total solutions for public, academic, and special libraries. Through a combination of the functionally rich and proven core products - ADVANCE ,PLUS and VUBIS and expansion of its state-of-the-art client-server and web-based systems, Geac has now provided academic, public, and special libraries with the necessary tools to become integral parts of the emerging worldwide information network. Throughout Fiscal 1997, Geac announced new releases of its core products - ADVANCE, PLUS, and VUBIS.
Release 6.7 of ADVANCE and 2.5.5 of PLUS included implementation of the most recent version of Z39.50, an international standard protocol for search and retrieval. As a result of the expanded capabilities and improved functionality of Geac’s client-server and web-based products, ADVANCE and PLUS customers using GeoWeb and GeoPac can now take advantage of search and retrieval functions such as Browse Searching and Display of Library Holdings. Customers will also now have the ability to limit searches by criteria such as Location, Date of Publication and Language.
In addition, release 2.5.5 of PLUS includes the ability for patrons to check out their own material through self-charge stations, patron-initiated automated telephone renewal, and electronic ordering of library material from selected vendors.
The VUBIS library automation software system continues to be successful in the European marketplace for all types of libraries. This past year, Geac introduced VUBIS NT, which has been installed in a number of European libraries.
In Fiscal 1997, Geac experienced a growing interest in its web-based public access software solutions - GeoWeb, which operates with ADVANCE and PLUS, and VUBISWeb. Due to the phenomenal growth and acceptance of the World Wide Web, an increasing number of libraries need to provide access to their Z39.50 compliant information resources from Web browsers such as Netscape’s Navigator or Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. Release 2.0 of GeoWeb, contained an improved user interface and expanded searching capability. Along with the release of GeoWeb 2.0 and the introduction of VUBISWeb, a growing number of Geac libraries now have the ability to access library information through industry recognized web browsers.
The Library Division also introduced a new version of GeoPac, its public access client software system. Release 2.0 of GeoPac included an improved user interface, expanded search and retrieval functions, and integration with GeoCat, Geac’s cataloging client software system.
In Fiscal 1998, Geac will focus on developing its Geo products to interface with users and evolve ADVANCE, PLUS and VUBIS toward one core product behind the Geo modules.