Databases

Databases hedgesst

Providing answers to questions is a basic service of public libraries; currently this service may be delivered in-library, using print and electronic resources, or remotely, generally using electronic resources. Because of the importance of electronic resources, one of OPLIN's main functions has always been to provide access to high-quality electronic information databases. Since 2003, OPLIN has been a partner in Libraries Connect Ohio, which supports a core collection of database resources statewide. These resources are provided to all Ohio citizens, regardless of where they go to school or live, so they will have a core set of the information resources necessary to compete in the global economy and improve their quality of life.

Service objectives:

What is the Ohio Web Library?

The Ohio Web Library term has also been used to refer to the web page that searches the statewide collection and resources purchase by OPLIN for public libraries (http://ohioweblibrary.org).

What is Libraries Connect Ohio?

Libraries Connect Ohio is a strategic partnership of OPLIN, OhioLINK, INFOhio, and the State Library of Ohio. While the three library networks provide many different services to different types of libraries, all three provide access to electronic databases. The Libraries Connect Ohio partnership allows the three networks to combine their resources, adding them to Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding distributed by the State Library, in order to get the best possible terms from database vendors.

 

Can't connect to one of the Ohio Web Library research databases? Something isn't working properly? Please contact the OPLIN Support Center for assistance.

Database List and Title Content

Database List and Title Content Laura Solomon (not verified)

Often librarians wonder what's included in the Ohio Web Library.

Through our partnership with Libraries Connect Ohio, we offer:

  • American and English Literature Collection (full text)
  • Digital Public Library of America
  • EBSCO - Academic Search Premier (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Alt HealthWatch (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Biography Reference Bank
  • EBSCO - Business Source Premier
  • EBSCO - Computer Source (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Consumer Health Complete
  • EBSCO - Explora for Primary Schools (Grades PreK-5)
  • EBSCO - Explora for Middle Schools (Grades 6-8)
  • EBSCO - Explora for Secondary Schools (Grades 9-12)
  • EBSCO - ERIC (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Funk & Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - GreenFILE (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Health Source: Consumer Edition (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Hobbies and Crafts Reference Center
  • EBSCO - Home Improvement Reference Center
  • EBSCO - Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Literary Reference Center
  • EBSCO - MAS Ultra: School Edition (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - MasterFILE Premier (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - MEDLINE (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Middle Search Plus (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Newspaper Source (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Points of View Reference Center
  • EBSCO - Primary Search (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Professional Development Collection (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Regional Business News Plus (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Religion and Philosophy Collection (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Science Reference Center (moving to Explora in July 2024)
  • EBSCO - Small Business Reference Center
  • EBSCO - Sociological Collection (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - TOPICsearch (in EBSCOhost)
  • EBSCO - Vocational and Career Collection (in EBSCOhost)
  • Gale - Chilton Library
  • Oxford - Oxford Research Encyclopedias
  • Oxford - Very Short Introductions
  • ProQuest - CultureGrams
  • Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps
  • World Book - Banco de Contenidos aula Planeta
  • World Book - Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos
  • World Book - L'Encyclopédie Découverte
  • World Book - Advanced
  • World Book - Early Learning
  • World Book - World Book Kids
  • World Book - World Book Student
  • World Book - World Book Timelines

In addition, OPLIN purchases the following resources just for public libraries and public library patrons to use through the Ohio Web Library:

  • LinkedIn Learning
  • Northstar Digital Literacy
  • ProQuest - African American Heritage
  • ProQuest - Ancestry Library Edition
  • ProQuest - Fold3
  • ProQuest - HeritageQuest

Journal title coverage for EBSCO databases is available here.

Get database statistics

Get database statistics oplin

New Statistics Portal (ODURT)

The OPLIN Database Usage Reporting Tool uses automation to pull usage numbers directly from the vendors' sites, and presents the most useful numbers (generally “searches” and “items”) in a consistent interface.

To see your library's numbers for last month, visit stats.oplin.org.
Click linked database names for more numbers and information.


ODURT supplies basic usage data for the research databases provided statewide for public libraries. It does not reflect the full range of activity that can be reported for some databases, focusing instead on two metrics in particular:

  • Regular Searches (as opposed to automated and federated searches)
  • Total Item Investigations (including full text, abstracts, and other content items)

When these standard metrics are not available, other vendor-determined statistics which most approximate the standards are gathered. For more information about database usage measurement standards, see the Friendly Guide for Librarians (pdf) or the full COUNTER Code of Practice website.


Additional Database Stats and Vendor Websites:

 
 
African-American Heritage
These stats take some time to completely compile, so ProQuest recommends waiting until the 5th of the month to get accurate usage statistics for the previous month.
 
Ancestry Library Edition
These stats take some time to completely compile, so ProQuest recommends waiting until the 5th of the month to get accurate usage statistics for the previous month.
 
EBSCOadmin
Additional reports of EBSCOhost usage, including NoveList, Auto Repair Reference Center, and any other EBSCO databases for which the library has a subscription. Requires library password. EBSCOadmin is EBSCO's own tool for checking EBSCO database usage statistics, creating reports, and customizing certain interface options. Since it is maintained by EBSCO and not OPLIN, a separate ID and password are required. If you do not know your ID and password, please contact the OPLIN Support Center, support@oplin.ohio.gov for assistance. For further details on how the tool itself works, click on the "Help" link at the top of the screen after logging in.
 
HeritageQuest
These stats take some time to completely compile, so ProQuest recommends waiting until the 5th of the month to get accurate usage statistics for the previous month.
 

Service objectives:

  • Incident Response: OPLIN staff will respond within one hour to malfunctions of database statistics during regular business hours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding State of Ohio holidays; contact us through the OPLIN Support site.
  • Incident Resolution: OPLIN staff will either resolve the incident within 4 business hours or will open an incident ticket with the database vendor(s) and work collaboratively toward resolving the incident within the timeframe specified in the vendor's agreed service objective.

Custom statistics

If you have a special statistics request, please contact http://support.oplin.org, and we will do our best to get what you need.

Linking databases from your library's website

Linking databases from your library's website oplin

OPLIN can provide remote access to nearly any subscription database a library purchases; contact the OPLIN Support Center for more information.

Links for the statewide databases licensed as part of the Ohio Web Library
Database name Correct URL
All EBSCOhost Databases https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-all or https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-service-select
     Academic Search Premier https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-academic
     Alt HealthWatch https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-althealthwatch
     Biography Reference Bank https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-bios
     Business Source Premier https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-business
     Computer Source https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-computersource
     Consumer Health Complete https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-consumerhealth
     ERIC https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-eric
     Explora Primary School http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-explora-primary
     Explora Middle School http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-explora-middle
     Explora Secondary School http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-explora-secondary
     GreenFILE https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-greenfile
     Health Source:  
     Consumer Edition
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-healthsource
     Health Source:  
     Nursing/Academic Edition
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-healthsourcenursing
     Hobbies & Crafts Ref Center https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/hobbies
     Home Improvement Ref Center https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-home
     Literary Reference Center https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-literary
     MAS Ultra - School Edition https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/mas
     MASTERFILE Premier https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/masterfile
     MEDLINE https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/medline
     Middle Search Plus https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/middle
     Newspaper Source https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/newspaper
     Points of View Reference  
     Center
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-viewpoints
     Primary Search https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/primary
     Professional Development  
     Collection
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/professional
     Psychology and Behavioral  
     Sciences Collection
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/psychology
     Religion and Philosophy  
     Collection
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/religion
     Science Reference Source https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-scienceref
     Small Business Reference Center https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-smallbusiness
     Sociological Collection https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/sociological
     TOPIC Search https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-topic
     Vocational and Career  
     Collection
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/vocational
   
African American Heritage https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/africanamericanheritage
American & English Literature https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/literature
Ancestry Library Edition https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ancestry
Chilton Library https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/chilton
CultureGrams https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/culturegrams
Fold3 Library Edition https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/fold3
Heritage Quest https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/heritagequest
LinkedIn Learning  https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/linkedinlearning
Oxford Research Encyclopedias https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/oxfordre
Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/sanborn
Very Short Introductions https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/veryshort
All World Book Databases https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook
     World Book Advanced https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-advanced
     World Book Early  
     World of Learning
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-early
     World Book French http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-french
     World Book Kids https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-kids
     World Book Spanish  
      (Banco de Contenidos aulaPlaneta)
https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-his
     World Book Student http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-student
     World Book Student-Spanish  
      (Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallzazgos)
https://www.ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-spa
     World Book Timelines http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-timelines

 

General resources provided by OPLIN
Website name Correct URL
Find an Ohio Public Library tool https://www.oplin.org/fal
Ohio Web Library https://www.ohioweblibrary.org
What Tree Is It? https://www.oplin.org/tree
What's That Snake? https://www.oplin.org/snake
What's the Point? https://www.oplin.org/point

 

Get MARC records for your catalog

Get MARC records for your catalog oplin

Some of the Ohio Web Library vendors provide MARC records that can be loaded into a library's catalog, so their online resources will appear in catalog search results. These MARC records will contain a link to the resource in the 856 field of the record (subfield u); however, for people outside the library, these links will not allow access to the resource, because they do not pass through the user authentication associated with our statewide subscriptions.

To fix this, the URLs in the 856 fields must be modified in two ways:

  1. Add this to the beginning of each link:
    https://auth.oplin.org/?url=
  2. Replace every "&" in every link with "%26" (percent-encoded ampersand)

For example, a link to Consumer Reports in the MARC record downloaded from EBSCO might have "https://search.ebscohost.com/direct.asp?db=f5h&jid=%22CRP%22&scope=site" in the 856u tag, and that would need to be changed to "https://auth.oplin.org/?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/direct.asp?db=f5h%26jid=%22CRP%22%26scope=site".

One easy way to make these modifications is to use Terry Reese's MarcEdit tool (free download). Open the MarcEditor, open the file of MARC records downloaded from the vendor, and from the "Tools" menu choose "Edit Subfield Data." In field 856, subfield u, look for field data https:// and replace it with https://auth.oplin.org/?url=https://. Repeat this process, looking for & and replacing it with %26. Save the edited file and it should be ready for importing into your catalog.

The vendors below currently provide MARC records for Ohio Web Library databases:

EBSCO
A large selection of MARC record files can be downloaded from the EBSCO Administrator interface. (If you don't know your login credentials, contact OPLIN Support.) Navigate to "Database Title Lists" and click on the "MARC 21" tab.
World Book
World Book provides some very general MARC records from their Training & Support site.
LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning MARC records require access to the LinkedIn Learning administrator interface. Contact OPLIN Support for assistance.

 

Marketing & Training Materials

Marketing & Training Materials oplin

Please use the links to the left to find a variety of useful information about the databases. Resources are broken down by database.

 

 

 

African American Heritage

African American Heritage Laura Solomon (not verified)

African American Heritage by ProQuest

African American Heritage is a digital resource exclusively devoted to African American family history research. This collection was created in partnership with leading African American genealogists and recognized leaders in genealogical information to develop a comprehensive mix of resources, records, and tools specifically pertaining to African Americans. It provides users a dedicated, user-friendly resource that not only brings together records critical to African American family research, but also connects them to a community of research experts, whose mentoring and assistance can frequently be the difference between research success and futility.

Go to African American Heritage now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/africanamericanheritage

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

  • Ongoing and Recorded Webinars. These approximately hour-long webinars are conducted by Proquest's training team. Trainings include African American Heritage as well as other Proquest products.

Other Helpful Links

American and English Full Text Literature Collections

American and English Full Text Literature Collections oplin

American & English full text literature collections

The American & English Literature Collections contain many works of poetry, drama, and prose from the 16th through 20th centuries. It includes the complete text of more than 200,000 poems, 2,000 plays, 100 works of prose, 11 major editions of Shakespeare’s works, and 21 editions of the Bible.
 
Use this resource to

  • Access full-text of more than 200,000 essential works of English and American literature.
  • Look for a specific work by author or title.
  • Search for a word or phrase within one book, within one collection, or across all the literature.

Go to American and English Literature Collections now: http://www.ohioweblibrary.org/literature

Ancestry Library Edition

Ancestry Library Edition Laura Solomon (not verified)

Ancestry Library Edition

Ancestry Library Edition delivers billions of records in census data, vital records, directories, photos, and more from countries all over the world. It's resources cover the United States and the United Kingdom, including census, vital, church, court, and immigration records, as well as record collections from Canada, Europe, Australia and other areas of the world.

ProQuest Ancestry Library Edition includes:

  • U.S. collections – hundreds of millions of names from sources such as the federal census; birth, death, and marriage records including the Social Security Death Index; and U.S. border crossing and trans-ocean ship records.
  • Military collections – more than 150 million records from the colonial to the Vietnam era, including World War I and II draft cards, POW records, and casualty records.
  • Multimedia collections – millions of files ranging from family and gravestone photos to postcards and newsreels.

Remember, Ancestry Library Edition can only be used inside the Library. Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/ancestry

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

  • Ancestry YouTube Channel. Browsing the Ancestry YouTube channel is a great place to get inspired about using Ancestry Library.
  • Ancestry's 5 Minute Finds. These short, focused, 5-minute YouTube videos from Ancestry.com show interesting ways to explore Ancestry's collections.
  • Ongoing and Recorded Webinars. These approximately hour-long webinars are conducted by Proquest's training team. Trainings include Ancestry Library Edition as well as other Proquest products.

Other Helpful Links

Biography Reference Bank

Biography Reference Bank Laura Solomon (not verified)

Biography Reference Bank

Biography Reference Bank contains articles about more than a half-million people, living and dead, from around the world. Contents include a robust collection of biographies from such notable sources as Biography Today and Biography Magazine.

Use Biography Reference Bank to:

  • Research and study notable individuals worldwide.
  • Access both concise and/or detailed biographies.
  • Search for biographies by gender, occupation, nationality, etc.

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new EBSCOhost user interface
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Business Source Premier

Business Source Premier oplin

Business Source Premier

Business Source Premier offers information from business publications as well as tens of thousands of company profiles.  It contains news and journal articles on marketing, management, accounting and more. Also included are company profiles, industry and marketing reports and company financial data.

Go to Business Source Premier now: http://www.ohioweblibrary.org/business

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new EBSCOhost user interface
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Chilton Library

Chilton Library Laura Solomon (not verified)

Chilton Library car repair

Chilton Library provides access to repair, maintenance and service information on the most popular cars, trucks, vans and SUVs on the road today, as well as, many new vehicles. This continuously updated resource provides step-by-step repair procedures, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes, photos, illustrations, diagrams, and multimedia (videos and animations) to simplify even the most complicated tasks.

Go to Chilton Library now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/chilton

Use Chilton Library for:

  • Step-by-step instructions that provide a one-stop source for automobile repair answers.
  • Videos and animations that show how to complete repairs.
  • Close-up photos and images to enhance understanding of the text.
  • Wiring diagrams to help explain system operation.
  • Troubleshooting and diagnostic information that help pinpoint searches.
  • Maintenance and specification tables that highlight key information.

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Consumer Health Complete

Consumer Health Complete Laura Solomon (not verified)

Consumer Health Complete

Consumer Health Complete can help you better understand key topics across the health and wellness spectrum — from mainstream medicine to complementary, holistic and integrated medicine. It contains more than 450 journals and magazines with complete articles on thousands of health topics, more than 2,400 full-text evidence-based health reports, nearly 350 up-to-date health reference books, more than 300 animations with audio narration, as well as consumer health pamphlets and leaflets from the CDC, FDA, NIH and others.

Go to Consumer Health Complete now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/health

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface (target transition date = July 2024)
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

CultureGrams

CultureGrams

CultureGrams logo

CultureGrams® is your source for concise, reliable, and up-to-date cultural information on countries of the world. Beyond the facts and figures, find an insider's perspective on the history, daily life, and customs. Also covers US states and Canadian provinces.

Go to CultureGrams now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/culturegrams

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

  • CultureGrams LibGuide from ProQuest - There is a little bit of everything here for library staff: eLearning, recorded webinars, and PowerPoint presentations to make your own. Make sure to check out the Escape Room and Scavenger Hunts under Teaching Activities!
  • K-12 Education Coursepack LibGuide - For school outreach, homeschoolers, and a Train the Trainer presentation that you can use in a variety of settings

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

 

christine

Explora for Middle Schools (Grades 6-8)

Explora for Middle Schools (Grades 6-8)

Specifically designed with the needs of middle school students in mind, Explora for Middle Schools includes full-text articles from popular, vocational, and trade magazines, full-text newspaper articles, along with images, videos, and primary sources. Lexile reading levels included.

Starting in Fall 2023, the public library user experience of Explora will more closely align with the INFOhio user experience.  The goal is that a student using Explora at school will have a similar set of resources and results when they use Explora at home or at their local library.  Here is what that will look like:

New in Fall 2023 - Explora for Middle Schools
New Explora Middle Resource List


 

Explora for Middle Schools: https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-explora-middle

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

christine

Explora for Primary Schools (Grades PreK-5)

Explora for Primary Schools (Grades PreK-5)

A trustworthy environment for students in grades PreK through 5 to look up facts for class projects or fun, Explora for Primary Schools includes full-text articles from the most popular children's magazines and eBook content from top children's publishers as well as encyclopedia entries from Funk & Wagnalls. Lexile reading levels included.

Starting in Fall 2023, the public library user experience of Explora will more closely align with the INFOhio user experience.  The goal is that a student using Explora at school will have a similar set of resources and results when they use Explora at home or at their local library.  Here is what that will look like:

Old version of Explora for Primary Schools New version of Explora for Primary Schools
Old Explora Primary Resource List New Explora Primary Resource List



Go to Explora for Primary Schools now: https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-explora-primary

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

christine

Explora for Public Libraries

Explora for Public Libraries Laura Solomon (not verified)

Explora for Public Libraries provides easy-to-use features and reliable content from the world's leading magazines and reference books, grouped into easy-to-browse categories. Explora provides research collections on thousands of topics to help them find the information they need quickly and easily. You can search hundreds of professional journals, popular magazines, reference books, images, primary sources, and more by keyword or by topic.

Go to Explora for Public Libraries now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-explora

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

Explora for Secondary Schools (Grades 9-12)

Explora for Secondary Schools (Grades 9-12)

A far better alternative to websites and search engines for students to look up articles and facts for research papers or homework, Explora for Secondary Schools offers full-text articles from thousands of magazines, journals, and newspapers on a wide variety of subjects, along with images, videos, and primary sources. Lexile reading levels included.

Starting in Fall 2023, the public library user experience of Explora will more closely align with the INFOhio user experience.  The goal is that a student using Explora at school will have a similar set of resources and results when they use Explora at home or at their local library.  Here is what that will look like:

Old version of Explora for Secondary Schools New version of Explora for Secondary Schools*
Old Explora Secondary Resource List New Explora Secondary Resource List

*The Ohio Web Library will not include the eBook High School Collection; that is content purchased specifically for INFOhio users.  

 

Go to Explora for Secondary Schools now: https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-explora-secondary

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

christine

Fold3 Library Edition

Fold3 Library Edition Laura Solomon (not verified)

Fold3

Fold3® Library Edition is the premier collection of historical military records, including the stories, photos, and personal documents of the men and women who served from the Revolutionary War through recent conflicts. It contains millions of records from world-class archives, many of which are exclusively available on Fold3 Library Edition.

Go to Fold3 now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/fold3

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

  • Fold3 Library Edition - Short Introduction - A 2-minute, high-level overview of all that Fold 3 Library Edition covers for you and your patrons.
  • Fold3 Library Edition - Video Library - These 3-minute YouTube videos created by ProQuest Training are a good place to start learning about Fold3 Library Edition. Topics include searching, the catalog, understanding the image viewer and the interactive viewer.

Other Helpful Links

HeritageQuest

HeritageQuest Laura Solomon (not verified)

 

HeritageQuest

HeritageQuest® Online is an essential collection of genealogical and historical sources for more than 60 countries, with coverage dating back as early as the 1700s. The collection can help people find their ancestors and discover a place’s past, while also providing a comprehensive treasury of genealogical sources rich in unique records, local and family histories, and finding-aids.

Go to HeritageQuest now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/heritagequest

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

Hobbies and Crafts Source

Hobbies and Crafts Source Laura Solomon (not verified)

Hobbies and Crafts Reference Center offers detailed "how-to" instructions and creative ideas to meet the interests of virtually every hobby enthusiast. Full text is provided from leading hobby and craft magazines.

Content Includes:

  • Full text for nearly 2,000 magazines and books
  • More than 720 videos
  • More than 180 hobby profiles
  • More than 10,000 recipes

Go to Hobbies and Crafts Reference Center now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/hobbies
 

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface (target transition date = December 2023)
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Home Improvement Source

Home Improvement Source Laura Solomon (not verified)

Woman painting a bookcase with the words home improvement source ebsco

Home Improvement Reference Center features full-text content from leading home improvement magazines, images not found anywhere else online and videos of popular home repair projects. All of the content is organized in a robust, easy-to-use interface so that users can quickly find the information they need.

Content Includes:

  • More than 130 full-text reference books, including major reference works from Creative Publishing International
  • More than 40 full-text magazines and trade publications
  • 35,000 images not available anywhere else online
  • Nearly 100 videos of popular home repair projects

Go to Home Improvement Reference Center now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/homeimprovement
 

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface (target transition date = December 2023)
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

LinkedIn Learning for Library

LinkedIn Learning for Library Laura Solomon (not verified)

LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning has more than 6,600 courses, ranging from computer programming to project management including instruction on various computer software, programming languages, and business topics. Learning paths are step-by-step structured courses, supported with quizzes, practice, and learning reminders to encourage you and support you as you make progress towards your goal. Examples of learning paths include how to become a web developer, manager, bookkeeper, project manager, small business owner, digital marketer, or digital illustrator.

Thousands of Courses Available

With a public library card, you can access free training in:

  • 3D
  • Animation
  • Audio
  • Business
  • Creative Inspirations
  • Design
  • Developer
  • Home Computing
  • Photography
  • Video
  • Web & Interactive
  • And more!

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

LinkedIn Learning: Librarian FAQs

LinkedIn Learning: Librarian FAQs Laura Solomon (not verified)

Librarian FAQs

What is the URL for LinkedIn Learning?
Each library has its own custom link. Your library's new link is https://www.linkedin.com/learning-login/go/oh####. ("oh####" will be your library's FSCS number.)
 
The LinkedIn Learning app asks patrons for a "Library ID." What is that?
Using the LinkedIn Learning app is not intuitive. After downloading the app, patrons will click "Sign In" then "Sign in with your library card." They are then asked to "Enter your Library ID." This ID is the library's FSCS number: oh0001, oh0002, oh0003, etc. (To find yours, contact OPLIN Support or look it up on the IMLS website.) 

To help your patrons with this process, here is a sample guide, and a version you can customize with your library's particular ID.

Are there training materials available to help us guide patrons through the new product?
What we have is linked from the Training section of our site.
 
Can patrons still access their old Lynda.com account information?
Patrons had until May 2022 to activate their LinkedIn Learning for Library account. After May 2022 that historical viewing data was deleted.
 
Are there MARC records we can load into our catalog?
Yes. Contact OPLIN Support to request the new MARC records.
 
Does LinkedIn store the library card number and PIN?
LinkedIn will encrypt and store the library card number for abuse prevention. PINs are not stored.
 
Will all the stats and information from Lynda Admin transfer over to LinkedIn Learning?
Basic usage metrics from July 2019 until Lynda.com became LinkedIn Learning is available from OPLIN's Database Usage Reporting Site. Libraries no longer have access to detailed user learning activity (such as certificates earned) or personally identifiable information (such as email addresses). 
 
OPLIN pulls only minimal LinkedIn Learning stats from the vendor—a count of videos watched. More usage metrics are available from the LinkedIn Learning admin; to request access to those, contact OPLIN Support.
 
I have concerns about the privacy of patron information that is to be shared with LinkedIn.
Online privacy is important, and it is good for librarians to inform themselves and to help educate their patrons. LinkedIn delayed their launch of LinkedIn Learning for Library so they could address librarians' concerns. The new platform collects no personally identifiable information (PII). More information about LinkedIn's general privacy policies and tools is available from their website. 

 

Literary Reference Center

Literary Reference Center Laura Solomon (not verified)

Literary Reference Center

Literary Reference Center provides you with abroad spectrum of information on thousands of authors and their works across time and literary discipline.
 
Literary Reference Center contains:

  • Plot summaries, synopses, and work overviews.
  • Nearly 100,000 pieces of literary criticism.
  • Author biographies and interviews.
  • More than 693,000 book reviews.
  • Full-text poems and short stories.

Go to Literary Reference Center now: http://www.ohioweblibrary.org/literary

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface (target transition date = July 2024)
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Magazine and Journal Articles via EBSCOhost

Magazine and Journal Articles via EBSCOhost oplin

Ebscohost millions of topics

EBSCOhost delivers articles from more than 6,000 magazines and newspapers, most in full text, ranging from children's magazines to professional research journals. Different interfaces designed for specific age groups and curricular areas make EBSCOhost easy to use for all researchers. Magazine and journal articles are contained in two databases: MasterFILE, which is primarily popular magazines, and Academic Search Premier, which is primarily academic or scholarly journals.

Go to all EBSCO resources now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/ebsco

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new EBSCOhost user interface
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Northstar Digital Literacy

Northstar Digital Literacy oplin

Northstar Digital Literacy defines basic skills needed to perform tasks on computers and online. Online, self-guided modules assess the ability of individuals to perform tasks based on these skills. Included are basic computer digital literacy standards and modules in three main areas:

  • Essential Computer Skills - Basic Computer Skills, Internet Basics, Using Email, Windows OS, Mac OS
  • Essential Software Skills – Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs
  • Using Technology in Daily Life - Social Media, Information Literacy, Career Search Skills, Supporting K-12 Distance Learning, Your Digital Footprint.

Northstar was developed in response to the needs of job seekers who may lack the digital literacy skills needed to seek, obtain, and retain employment, as well as to perform other tasks in daily life. Northstar allows end users to freely take the assessments from anywhere via our homepage, but individuals can instead go to an approved testing location and obtain the Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate when they pass assessments. Certificates provide an important credential for employment, as even entry-level jobs increasingly require basic computer skills. Certificates also certify end user ability to complete computer skills needed in higher education, and demonstrate their ability to use social media and online information thoughtfully. If individuals do not pass, personalized assessment results provide a roadmap to relevant instruction, allowing them to retake the assessment once they have mastered the necessary skills. Northstar also includes learning resources to support adult learners to master the standards outlined. Learning resources include classroom curriculum that can be used in person or remotely, and Northstar Online Learning, which provides self-directed instruction and practice for individuals.

Northstar is used by over 2240 Adult Basic Education programs, colleges, nonprofits, workforce centers, government agencies, and businesses.

Go to Northstar Digital Literacy now:  http://www.digitalskillsohio.org

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

Oxford Research Encyclopedias

Oxford Research Encyclopedias Laura Solomon (not verified)

Oxford Research Encyclopedias

The Oxford Research Encyclopedias offer long-form overview articles written, peer-reviewed, and edited by leading scholars. Each of the twenty-five distinct encyclopedias cover both foundational and cutting-edge topics in order to develop, over time, an anchoring knowledge base for major areas of research across the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Oxford Classical Dictionary and  Encyclopedia of Social Work are two of those encyclopedias.

Go to Oxford Research Encyclopedias now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/oxfordre

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Oxford Materials

  •  FAQ Often asked questions about Oxford Research Encyclopedias.

Points of View

Points of View Laura Solomon (not verified)

Points of View Reference Center

Points of View Reference Center is a comprehensive full-text database that provides a series of essays that present multiple sides of today’s most controversial scientific, social, economic, and political issues. There are over 500 topics, each featuring four main essays:

  • Overview–an objective background description.
  • Point –the arguments supporting one side of the issue.
  • Counterpoint –the arguments supporting the opposing side.
  • Guide to Critical Analysis–questions and tips to help you analyze the issue in-depth.

In addition, Points of View Reference Center lets you easily search leading political magazines from both sides of the aisle, newspapers, radio and TV news transcripts, primary source documents, and reference books for more information. POV is updated twice a day.

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/viewpoints

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface (target transition date = July 2024)
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Sanborn Maps

Sanborn Maps oplin
Sanborn Fire Maps
The Sanborn Maps were originally created for assessing fire insurance liability in urbanized areas in the United States. Our collection includes over 40,000 detailed maps of Ohio cities drawn between 1882 and 1962. Each map includes detailed information regarding town and building information.
 
Although these maps were originally published in color, our collection is digitized from microfilm and is in black and white. Thanks to a partnership with Kent State University, links to full color archival versions of maps through 1926 are now included in the Ohio Web Library results from the KSU Institutional Repository.

 
You can use this collection to:

  • Locate the residences and workplaces of ancestors.
  • Understand the significance and historical evolution of buildings.
  • See what your town looked like in the past and how it has changed over time.

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/sanborn

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Helpful Links

Science Reference Center

Science Reference Center Laura Solomon (not verified)

Science Reference Center

EBSCO’s Science Reference Center provides easy access to full-text, science- oriented content appropriate for middle and high school students. Science Reference Center contains full text for hundreds of science magazines, journals, encyclopedias, reference books and other reliable sources. In addition, the database includes a vast collection of images from sources such as UPI, Getty, NASA, National Geographic and the Nature Picture Library.

Go to Science Reference Center now: http://www.ohioweblibrary.org/scienceref

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's Science Reference Center in the new Explora platform
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Small Business Reference Center

Small Business Reference Center Laura Solomon (not verified)

Small Business Reference Center

Small Business Reference Center offers exclusive full text for many top consumer small business reference books, as well as tools to address many small business topics. It includes business videos, a help and advice section and details on how to create business plans.

Go to Small Business Reference Center now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/ebsco-smallbusiness

Tutorials and Presentations

  • OPLIN Sneak Peek webinar (May 2023) - A first look at EBSCO's new Explora user interface (target transition date = December 2023)
  • EBSCO Academy - Check this complete listing of videos, self-guided eLearning paths, and instructor-led tutorials

Other Helpful Links

  • EBSCO Connect - This website is designed to be a one-stop shop for all your EBSCO questions

Very Short Introductions

Very Short Introductions Laura Solomon (not verified)

Very Short Introductions

Very Short Introductions provide intelligent and serious introductions to a huge range of subjects. In this digital resource, hundreds of titles can be searched at once, opening up new pathways across subjects. Students can use Very Short Introductions to con sider study options, embark on a new module, topic, or essay, or revise a particular subject.  Teachers and other educators can assign chapters, or whole books to students. Adult learners can also gain new insights through an introduction to a topic.

Go to Very Short Introductions now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/veryshort

Quick Start Guides & Tip Sheets

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Resources

World Book - Banco de Contenidos aulaPlaneta

World Book - Banco de Contenidos aulaPlaneta christine

Banco de Contenidos aulaPlaneta is a comprehensive Spanish-language database designed for native Spanish speakers, bilingual students, and ESL/ELL program participants. From the world’s largest and most respected Spanish-language publishers, aulaPlaneta includes more than 140,000 articles, 8,000 web links to additional information, and 9,000 images, videos, animations, sounds, and interactive media.

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-his

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

  • Recommendations by topic from World Book - a quick guide for which resource to use when
  • Online Help. A website from World Book designed to help and train libraries and educators on Banco de Contenidos aulaPlaneta.
  • Social Media Posts from World Book. Features a variety of timely topics, product specific, and feature specific images for posting.

World Book - Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos

World Book - Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos christine

Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos is the optimal beginner’s Spanish-language reference tool.  The site offers all the best elements of World Book Kids—thousands of easy-to read articles packed with stunning illustrations, videos, interactive maps, and a wealth of engaging games and activities—designed to build key language and research skills throughout their education.

Go there now: https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-spa

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

  • Recommendations by topic from World Book - a quick guide for which resource to use when
  • Online Help. A website from World Book designed to help and train libraries and educators on Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos.
  • Social Media Posts from World Book. Features a variety of timely topics, product specific, and feature specific images for posting.

World Book - L'Encyclopédie Découverte

World Book - L'Encyclopédie Découverte christine

L'Encyclopédie Découverte, World Book's French language encyclopedia, features two interfaces: one aimed at grades K through 4 and one for older students and adults.

L'Encyclopédie Découverte has many features to help reach learners at many different levels. It is perfect for native-speaking researchers, advanced bilingual users, and ELL students. It is also fully integrated with World Book Kids, so users can toggle back and forth between French and English. Additionally, L'Encyclopédie Découverte features interactive games and activities for beginning learners.

Go there now: https://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-french

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

World Book Advanced

World Book Advanced christine

World Book Advanced

World Book Advanced, one of the resources available through World Book, is great for ages 14 and up. World Book Advanced offers a wealth of vetted articles supplemented by thousands of original source documents, fosters advanced research and critical thinking skills, and prepares students for continued growth.

World Book offers a number of accommodation tools in World Book Advanced, including

  • a built-in Double-click Dictionary for in-article definitions
  • Read-aloud with options for faster or slower, as well as a variety of narrators
  • a Translation Tool option to translate any article into one of over 100 languages

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-advanced

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

World Book Early World of Learning

World Book Early World of Learning Laura Solomon (not verified)

Worldbook World of Early Learning

World Book Early World of Learning, one of the resources available through World Book, is great for ages 3-7. Developed with experts in early childhood education, this re-designed database offers rich resources to help young learners build their vocabulary, comprehension, phonics, and reading fluency.

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-early

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

  • Recommendations by topic from World Book - a quick guide for which resource to use when
  • Online Help. A website from World Book designed to help and train libraries and educators on World Book Early World of Learning.
  • Social Media Posts from World Book. Features a variety of timely topics, product specific, and feature specific images for posting.

World Book Kids

World Book Kids Laura Solomon (not verified)

Worldbook Kids

World Book Kids, one of the resources available through World Book, is great for ages 6-10. This go-to resource is chock-full of fun activities, hands-on science projects, and age-appropriate articles, and offers image-based navigation to help young learners find information quickly and develop necessary digital literacy skills.

World Book offers a number of accommodation tools in World Book Kids, including

  • a built-in Double-click Dictionary for in-article definitions
  • Read-aloud with options for faster or slower, as well as a variety of narrators
  • a Translation Tool option to translate any article into one of over 100 languages

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-kids

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

 

World Book Student

World Book Student Laura Solomon (not verified)

World Book Student

World Book Student, one of the resources available through World Book Online, is great for ages 10-14. Tailored specifically for students, articles include multimedia and related resources to engage students, biographies, and supplemental tools to support cross-curricular studies.

World Book offers a number of accommodation tools in World Book Student, including

  • a built-in Double-click Dictionary for in-article definitions
  • Read-aloud with options for faster or slower, as well as a variety of narrators
  • a Translation Tool option to translate any article into one of over 100 languages

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-student

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

World Book Timelines

World Book Timelines Laura Solomon (not verified)

World Book Timelines

World Book Timelines, one of the resources available through World Book, is great for ages 14 and up.  Explore more than 650 pre-made timelines with over 14,000 individual events, or create your own timelines!

Go there now: http://ohioweblibrary.org/db/worldbook-timelines

Tutorials and Presentations

Other Helpful Links

 

Database Selection Process

Database Selection Process

The Ohio Web Library is comprised of a number of resources available to patrons at libraries statewide.

These resources have been selected using several different processes:

  • Libraries Connect Ohio databases are selected by a committee of public, academic, and K-12 libraries that convenes every five years to review proposals made by vendors through a formal ITN process. More information about the Libraries Connect Ohio group and the ITN process can be found elsewhere on the OPLIN website. The OPLIN Board approves the OPLIN contribution to LCO funding.
  • Genealogy databases are contracted separately, pending the availability of OPLIN operating funds. The Content Advisory Committee offers feedback on the package, but the Executive Director is responsible for contract negotiations and budgeting, and OPLIN Board is ultimately responsible for approving funding for the contract.
  • LinkedIn Learning was selected as a result of an RFP for Careers and Professional Development in 2018. The Content Advisory Committee reviewed bids from multiple vendors and made recommendations to the Executive Director.  The OPLIN Board approved funding for the contract.
  • Northstar Digital Literacy was proposed for ARPA funding by the Executive Director in 2021 in response to the increased need for digital literacy resources as a result of the pandemic. Funding was renewed in 2022 through a federal Institute of Museum and Library Services LSTA grant awarded by the State Library of Ohio.

There are also resources that were contracted with perpetual access many years ago, which still remain part of the Ohio Web Library:

  • American and English Full Text Literature Collections
  • Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps

Finally, three Ohio Web Library resources are maintained by OPLIN's web services, using content provided by the Ohio History Connection:

  • What Tree Is It?
  • What's That Snake?
  • What's the Point?

Additional information about all of these resources can be found at the Statewide Content page of the OPLIN website.

oplin

Statewide Content

Statewide Content

The Ohio Web Library statewide content to public libraries is provided through four different contracts, facilitated by OPLIN:

Resource Current Contract Dates Funded By

LCO Package*

  • EBSCO Core Collection
  • World Book Package
  • Oxford Research Encyclopedias
  • Very Short Introductions
  • Chilton Library
  • CultureGrams

*Note: American and English Full Text Literature Collections and Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps are also part of the LCO Collection, but those collections were purchased outright many years ago, and they are not part of the 5-year contract cycle.

7/1/23 to

6/30/28

LCO Partners (OhioLINK, INFOhio, and OPLIN)

and LSTA Funds (IMLS/State Library of Ohio)

Genealogy Package

  • African American Heritage
  • Ancestry Library Edition
  • Fold3
  • HeritageQuest Online
7/1/23 to 6/30/26 OPLIN Operating Funds

Careers and Professional Development

  • LinkedIn Learning

7/1/19 to

6/30/24

OPLIN Operating Funds

Digital Literacy Skills

  • Northstar Digital Literacy

10/1/23 to

9/30/24

LSTA Funds (IMLS/State Library of Ohio)

Three other Ohio Web Library resources are provided by OPLIN, in partnership with the Ohio History Connection:

  • What Tree Is It?
  • What's That Snake?
  • What's the Point?
oplin

Content Advisory Committee

Content Advisory Committee Laura Solomon (not verified)

NOTICE

The next meeting of the Content Advisory Committee will be on March 30, 2023, at the OPLIN Office and online.  Contact Christine Morris, christine@oplin.ohio.gov, for more information, including meeting link and agenda.

Charter

In keeping with the purpose and goal of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) as defined in Ohio Revised Code 3375.64, OPLIN acquires access to electronic information resources, and develops electronic resources, for the use of all residents of Ohio. To assist in the selection of these information resources, the Board hereby charters a Content Advisory Committee.

I. Purposes

The committee is created for the purpose of working with the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Public Library Information Network to offer recommendations and provide information relevant to the electronic information resources purchased by OPLIN and shall limit its activities to advising on those matters only. It is the role and sole prerogative of the Board to enact policy regarding electronic information resources. The specific purposes of the Committee may include the following responsibilities:

  • Review current information resource needs;
  • Prioritize content for retention, weeding or replacement;
  • Prioritize content for possible addition;
  • Recommend configuration of content for delivery via the World Wide Web;
  • Recommend changes to OPLIN and/or vendor support of information resources, including statistics.

II. Membership

The advisory committee shall consist of ten (10) members and may not include any OPLIN Board members. Members serve voluntarily at the invitation of the OPLIN Director and will constitute a cross-section of the Ohio public library community including reference and public service managers in public libraries. Members shall be recruited from library systems that invest in content beyond what OPLIN provides. Membership will be reaffirmed by the OPLIN Board at the discretion of the OPLIN Director.

III. Relationship to Libraries Connect Ohio

This committee nominates five (5) of its members to be part of any Libraries Connect Ohio advisory committee, which would also include five members from OhioLINK and five members from INFOhio. Such a committee will meet as needed to define the core Ohio Web Library collection.

The OPLIN Board recognizes that purchasing information resources statewide through the Libraries Connect Ohio partnership (http://librariesconnectohio.org) is the most economical way to provide a core collection of information resources and library services that will help all Ohioans. The Board also recognizes, however, that the information needs of public libraries sometimes differ from the needs of libraries supporting the curriculum of a school or college. This committee will therefore define any additional information needs of public libraries, despite the fact that funding for resources in addition to the resources purchased for the Ohio Web Library may not exist at the time. Committee recommendations regarding the content of the Ohio Web Library collection will be used to inform the work of committee members serving on any Libraries Connect Ohio advisory committee.

IV. Procedural Rules

Meetings: Because this committee may make recommendations to the OPLIN Board regarding purchases, it may be considered a "public body" under Ohio's Open Records and Open Meetings laws; committee meetings will therefore be open to the public and conducted under section 121.22 of the Ohio Revised Code and any applicable temporary law. Notices of meetings will be posted on the OPLIN website in accordance with Ohio's Open Records and Open Meetings laws.

Quorum: A gathering of six or more members of the committee shall constitute a quorum.

Minutes: Minutes of each meeting shall be created by OPLIN staff attending the meeting. After review by the committee, they will be posted on the OPLIN website.

Recommendations and Reports: Committee recommendations and reports will be submitted to the OPLIN Board through the OPLIN Director. Recommendations will include both suggested action and justification for suggestions.

V. Review

This charter shall be reviewed at the request of the Board of Trustees or the Executive Director of the Ohio Public Library Information Network.

Adopted by the OPLIN Board October 11, 2013.

Amended by the OPLIN Board February 11, 2022.

2015 Annual Meeting

2015 Annual Meeting hedgesst

ANNUAL MEETING of the CONTENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
of the OHIO PUBLIC LIBRARY INFORMATION NETWORK (OPLIN)

Minutes — February 26, 2015

1. WELCOME and CALL TO ORDER

The 2015 annual meeting of the Content Advisory Committee of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) was called to order at 10:05 a.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2015 by OPLIN Director Stephen Hedges at the OPLIN office in Columbus, Ohio.

Present were committee members: Don Boozer, Tamar Kreke, Kirstin Krumsee, Francie Labriola, Chris May, Joe O'Rourke, Jeff Regensburger, and Randall Fulks; David Topoleski and Charley Voelker were unable to attend.

2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

The agenda was approved as presented without a vote.

3. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES

The minutes were approved as read without a vote.

4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There was no public participation.

5. OLD BUSINESS

There was no old business to come before the committee.

6. NEW BUSINESS

6.1. Discuss Ohio Web Library collection

There was general discussion of recent interface changes by vendors. Stephen Hedges noted that they make more use of graphic elements. He also reported that database usage continues to decline by about 20% a year.

This initiated a discussion of database marketing. The committee felt it was important that libraries be able to brand the databases as their own, and might then be more likely to "sell" them. Most of the committee members put their databases under a "Research" tab on their websites. More use of social media was suggested, perhaps to promote the most useful research resources, as well as possibly developing a network of local experts who could support and promote database use.

Additional resources the committee recommended included Lynda.com, auto repair information, and foreign language instruction.

6.2. Discuss Ohio Web Library search interface

The committee reviewed some proposed changes to the ohioweblibrary.org search page. There was discussion of the single search box as opposed to "app" buttons for individual databases. There was also discussion of graphic additions to the page to make it more visually appealing. The committee favored grouping of databases within subject categories.

7. ADJOURNMENT

Stephen Hedges asked if there was any more business to come before the committee. None appearing, he thanked the committee members and adjourned the meeting at 11:40 a.m.

2016 Annual Meeting

2016 Annual Meeting hedgesst

ANNUAL MEETING of the CONTENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
of the OHIO PUBLIC LIBRARY INFORMATION NETWORK (OPLIN)

Minutes — February 17, 2016

1. WELCOME and CALL TO ORDER

The 2016 annual meeting of the Content Advisory Committee of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) was called to order at 10:05 a.m. on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 by OPLIN Director Stephen Hedges at the OPLIN office in Columbus, Ohio.

Present were committee members: Randall Fulks, Tamar Kreke, Kirstin Krumsee, Francie Labriola, Joe O'Rourke, Jeff Regensburger, David Topoleski, Anne Wachs, and Holly Varley; Don Boozer was unable to attend.

2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

The agenda was approved as presented without a vote.

3. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES of February 26, 2015 meeting

The minutes were approved as read without a vote.

4. OLD BUSINESS

4.1. Discuss Ohio Web Library interface changes

Stephen Hedges briefly presented the changes to the Ohio Web Library search interface that had been implemented after the last committee meeting. He also presented the graphics OPLIN created for promoting the databases.

5. NEW BUSINESS

5.1. Discuss changes to Ohio Web Library collection

Stephen Hedges explained the financial reasons for the cancellation of the contract for the LearningExpress Library resources. INFOhio suffered an unexpected budget cut in the current biennium budget, and none of the other Libraries Connect Ohio partners could cover the shortfall.

5.2. Discuss usage statistics

Stephen Hedges provided Ohio Web Library usage statistics, both from the schools and colleges and from the public library community. The public library usage no longer seems to be declining, but still lags behind school and college usage with the exception of Ancestry Library Edition.

5.3. Discuss selection methodology

Stephen Hedges presented a table of funding information for the Ohio Web Library, showing resource cost and cost allocation among the partners both before and after the INFOhio budget cut. He explained that the Libraries Connect Ohio partners have concerns about the disconnect between the cost allocations and the collection usage, and are seeking ideas for correcting the imbalance. In two years, Libraries Connect Ohio should be evaluating bids for the next group of five-year contracts for online resources. Can we tweak that process to improve the situation?

There was discussion of the current selection process, and Anne Wachs noted that more information about this process needs to be communicated to the library community, since many do not understand why certain databases are selected while others are not. Ensuing discussion raised many questions. Can the EBSCO package be broken into pieces, with some available only to certain library communities? Can the RFP be structured to request pricing on some resources for public library access only? Would better marketing of the collection improve usage?

It was noted that marketing includes offering the resources people want. Committee members' libraries tend to buy resources for lifelong learning, financial planning, and repair instructions to meet demand not filled by the Ohio Web Library.

It was suggested that OPLIN should conduct a survey, to be sent to library directors, asking the following questions:

  • What online resources are you currently buying? What is your budget for such purchases?
  • What requests for information are you unable to satisfy?
  • What online resources (up to 10) do you consider indispensable?
  • What online resources do you have now, including the Ohio Web Library, that you feel are not useful?

7. ADJOURNMENT

On motion of David Topoleski and second of Kirstin Krumsee the Board adjourned at 11:40 a.m.

2017 Annual Meeting

2017 Annual Meeting mandy
ANNUAL MEETING of the CONTENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
of the OHIO PUBLIC LIBRARY INFORMATION NETWORK (OPLIN) Minutes
February 23, 2017

1.WELCOME and CALL TO ORDER
The 2017 annual meeting of the Content Advisory Committee of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) was called to order at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday February 23, 2017 by Mandy Knapp, OPLIN Digital Resources Manager at the OPLIN office in Columbus, Ohio.
Present were committee members: Randall Fulks, Tamar Kreke, Kirstin Krumsee, Francie Labriola, Joe O'Rourke, Jeff Regensburger, David Topoleski, Anne Wachs, and Holly Varley; Don Boozer was unable to attend. OPLIN Director Stephen Hedges was also in attendance.

2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
The agenda was approved as presented without a vote.

3. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES of February 17, 2016 meeting
The minutes were approved as read without a vote

4. OLD BUSINESS
No old business at this time.

5. NEW BUSINESS.
5.1 Discuss usage statistics
            A. Tableau demo and discussion
Mandy Knapp shared current statistics for OPLIN databases from the public library community.  Ancestry Library Edition continues to be the most widely-used resource by public libraries.
            B. Best practices for reporting stats
Mandy Knapp discussed the challenges reporting vendor statistics, including lack of consistency. David Topoleski suggested that the ITN (RFP) include information from the vendor about the level of statistical reporting available. Holly Varley suggested that the ITN committee ask specifically for samples of reports from vendors. Jeff Regensburger noted that sessions appear to be the best statistic to report on at this time.
            C. Directions and suggestions based on usage statistics
5.2. Seeking Volunteers for the ITN (AKA RFP) Committee
Tamar Kreke, Francie Labriola, David Topoleski, Anne Wachs, and Holly Varley will represent OPLIN on the ITN Committee.
The committee discussed the need to gather feedback from the library community for direction on databases. Suggestions included surveys and focus groups.
A. Vendor webinar during ITN process.
After discussion, the committee decided to decline a vendor’s offer of a vendor webinar during the ITN process.
5.3 Discuss trainings to be offered
            A. Vendor-Offered trainings
Tarmar Kreke noted that librarian-lead trainings are often more helpful than the vendor-sponsored trainings.
            B. Modelling the iCoaches program
Mandy Knapp discussed the ways of modelling the iCoaches program: regionally, by consortium or by expertise. Anne Wachs noted that there are many existing experts out in the library field; they just need to be organized and recognized. Jeff Regensburger notes that it would be worthwhile to reach out to OLC to add information Ohio Web Library Information to the Ohio Reference Excellence Module.
5.4 Evaluation of trainings
Mandy Knapp asked about the evaluation of these trainings and the possibility of using the same questions as other state projects with some modifications. Anne Wachs noted that it was important to evaluate right away.
5.5. Marketing
Mandy Knapp mentioned that the state of Iowa has had some success marketing their databases through yard signs. David Topoleski noted that digital signage that libraries were able to add branding to would also be helpful and also a paragraph suitable for library newsletters would also work well. Mandy Knapp asked about the usefulness of bookmarks; several committee members noted that they are useful as handouts.

6. ADJOURNMENT
Mandy Knapp asked if there was any more business to come before the committee. None appearing, she thanked the committee members and adjourned the meeting at 12:15 p.m.

2018 Annual Meeting

2018 Annual Meeting Laura Solomon (not verified)

2018 Annual Minutes
ANNUAL MEETING of the CONTENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE of the OHIO PUBLIC LIBRARY INFORMATION NETWORK (OPLIN) Minutes

March 28, 2018
1.WELCOME and CALL TO ORDER
The 2018 annual meeting of the Content Advisory Committee of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) was called to order at 11:04 a.m. on Wednesday March 28 by Mandy Knapp, OPLIN Digital Resources Manager at the OPLIN office in Columbus, Ohio.
Present were committee members: Randall Fulks, Tamar Kreke, Kirstin Krumsee, Francie Labriola, Joe O'Rourke, Jeff Regensburger, Anne Wachs, and Holly Varley; Don Boozer and David Topoleski were unable to attend.
2. OLD BUSINESS
No old business at this time.
3. NEW BUSINESS.
3.1       Update on LCO databases Mandy Knapp updated the committee on the outcomes of the Libraries Connect Ohio Database selection committee.
*3.2     Discuss Responses to Genealogy RFP. After a lengthy and robust discussion of the needs of public libraries and the bids proposed, the committee prioritize the databases and made recommendations for how to OPLIN staff should proceed.
*3.3     Discuss Responses to Careers and Workforce RFP After a lengthy and robust discussion of the needs of public libraries and the bids proposed, the committee prioritize the databases and made recommendations for how to OPLIN staff should proceed.
3.4       Ohio Web Library site—ideas for improvement. The committee discussed the current Ohio Web Library. Tamar Kreke noted that there had been a substantial redesign 2 years ago. Committee members had new ideas for subject headings and offered to assist with descriptions of databases.
3.5       Marketing materials. The committee members discussed what tangible materials would be good for marketing new resources. Several committee members mentioned the importance of allowing libraries to brand their own items.
3.6       Committee vacancy. Don Boozer is no longer able to participate on the committee. Mandy Knapp asked the committee for ideas for new committee members. Several worthy names were mentioned.
4.ADJOURNMENT
Mandy Knapp asked if there was any more business to come before the committee. None appearing, she thanked the committee members and adjourned the meeting at 2:20 p.m.

2022 Annual Meeting

2022 Annual Meeting christine

Meeting Minutes of the Content Advisory Committee of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN)

March 1, 2022

  1. Welcome and Call to Order

    The 2022 annual meeting of the Content Advisory Committee of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) was called to order at 1:02 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1 by Christine Morris, OPLIN Digital Resources Manager via GoToMeeting. Present were committee members Sara Churchill, Randall Fulks, Renee Hopper, Tamar Kreke, Kristin Krumsee, Mary Frances (Francie) Labriola, Joe O'Rourke, Jeff Regensburger, Anne Wachs and ex-officio members Christine Morris and Don Yarman. David Topoleski was unable to attend.

  2. Approval of the Agenda

    Sara Churchill moved to approve the agenda. Tamar Kreke seconded. The agenda was approved.

  3. Public Participation

    There was no public participation.

  4. Approval of the Minutes from March 28, 2018 (https://www.oplin.ohio.gov/2018-annual-meeting)

    Tamar Kreke moved to approve the minutes from March 28, 2018. Randall Fulks seconded.

    There was discussion about the minutes. Several committee members indicated that they thought there were meetings subsequent to March 2018. There were no written records of those meetings.

    Sara Churchill indicated that she thought she was present for the March 2018 meeting. She moved to add her name to the attendee list in the minutes. Francie Labriola seconded the motion. That motion was approved.

    A vote was called to approve the amended minutes. The amended minutes were approved.

  5. Old Business

    There was no old business.

  6. New Business

    Discuss LCO ITN

    Christine gave background regarding the Libraries Connect Ohio (LCO) Intent to Negotiate (ITN) process. The current contracts will end on 6/30/23, so the constituencies of the LCO group (OPLIN, INFOhio, and OhioLINK) will be preparing for that process now. Ohio State University is the fiscal agent for OhioLINK and the ITN sponsor, so the process is subject to OSU procurement rules.

    As in the past, there will be a convening of representatives from the three constituencies. That group will review the current content, the trends and needs for the group members, and any future wishes for the collection. The current LSTA spend is less than 15 cents per Ohio citizen for this shared content.

    Agency representatives of the constituent groups will be meeting to plan the exact timeline, but the general process includes: each constituency choosing 5 representatives (in addition to the agency representatives) to compose an ITN committee, gathering the ITN committee to review content trends and needs, developing an ITN document, releasing the ITN document, receiving and reviewing vendor responses to the ITN, committee recommendations for negotiation, negotiations, final selections, and approval by the State Library Board.

    There were questions about the content that is specific to the OPLIN and the public libraries. The genealogy content is separate because it was intentionally removed from the ITN process in the last round: academic and K-12 libraries had relatively little interest in genealogy, and it is the most-used content by public libraries. Thus, the OPLIN Board directed that a portion of the funds for statewide content be reserved for that purpose. Additionally, the OPLIN Board approved a separate process to review and select content to support workforce development, which resulted in the acquisition of Lynda.com (now known as LinkedIn Library). Statistics for all of the statewide content were shared.

    Volunteers for the ITN Committee

    Christine Morris asked for volunteers to the ITN Committee. Anne Wachs, Francie Labriola, Sara Churchill, Tamar Kreke, and Renee Hopper volunteered.

    Other New Business

    Don Yarman suggested that the group take the remainder of the scheduled meeting time to discuss trends in content among the committee members. General trends in content purchasing included: newspapers (especially current newspapers in daily formats), test preparation, online legal forms, consumer reviews and buying guides, engine repair guides, crafting, online learning, and investment research.

  7. Adjournment

    There being no further business, Tamar Kreke moved to adjourn the meeting. Anne Wachs seconded. The motion passed, and the meeting was adjourned at 1:56 p.m.

2023 Annual Meeting

2023 Annual Meeting

DRAFT MEETING MINUTES of the CONTENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE of the OHIO PUBLIC LIBRARY INFORMATION NETWORK (OPLIN)

(to be approved at the next meeting)

March 30, 2023

  1. WELCOME AND CALL TO ORDER

    The 2023 annual meeting of the Content Advisory Committee of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) was called to order at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 30 by Christine Morris, OPLIN Digital Resources Manager at the OPLIN office. Present were committee members Kaitlin Booth, Renee Hopper, Tamar Kreke, Mary Frances (Francie) Labriola, Joe O'Rourke, and Anne Wachs, as well as ex-officio members Phil Willke, Christine Morris, and Don Yarman. A GoToMeeting link was provided for members unable to attend in person. Randall Fulks, Cathy Mason, and Barb Templeman joined via GoToMeeting. Sara Churchill was unable to attend. Attendees present and online introduced themselves after the approval of agenda and minutes.

  2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

    Anne Wachs moved to approve the agenda. Tamar Kreke seconded. The agenda was approved.

  3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

    There was no public participation.

  4. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES

    Francie Labriola moved to approve the minutes from March 1, 2022. Joe O’Rourke seconded. The minutes were approved.

  5. OLD BUSINESS

    Discuss LCO ITN

    Christine gave background regarding the Libraries Connect Ohio (LCO) Intent to Negotiate (ITN) process. The process started with the release of the ITN in September 2022. There was a very large response, and the reviewers had a short amount of time to assess nearly 90 products.

    Don gave an overview of OPLIN’s funding and budget. OPLIN’s budget has not changed substantially in the last 10 years, and our contribution to the LCO package has remained the same ($1 million each year), as have the OhioLINK ($1 million) and INFOhio ($500,000) contributions. The LSTA grant from the State Library of Ohio increased by .5% as a result of a special request by the LCO group.

    Anne said that the results were disappointing this time, while Tamar noted that public libraries did particularly well in the current contract. Francie noted that the EBSCO package takes the “lion’s share” of the funds available. Christine noted that there were discussions about comparable vendor packages and paring down the EBSCO package, but those discussions did not result in changes this time.

    Anne noted that OhioLINK and INFOhio had clear priorities among the resources, while there were no resources available that were attractive to a public library constituency that were priced less than $500,000. That made conversations about new resources difficult.

    There was a general discussion about homework assignments and electronic resources. Tamar noted that another local library system does not get any traditional “homework” questions, as their school district does not assign homework. That did not seem to be a universal trend, but others concurred that some schools in their areas are similar.

    Don asked about reactions to Transparent Languages. Most noted that they had low use of the resource, so they were not intending to seek local contracts. Some are still discussing the change. Many noted patron use of free or freemium resources or a local subscription to Mango. Some noted an interest in ESL resources; Mango does not have ESL, but Transparent did. Barb noted that in-person ESL classes are more popular at her library. Randall shared that Gale Courses has some language learning resources.

    There were some questions about EBSCO’s upcoming change to the Explora platform for all databases. Christine recently met with the EBSCO rep, and she will share more information about that transition to the CAC email list when that becomes available.

  6. NEW BUSINESS

    Discuss Genealogy Quotes

    Don said that keeping Ancestry was a given. The question for the group was: if the quotes for renewal are outside of the scope of the budget, would libraries prefer that we keep HeritageQuest or Fold3. African American Heritage seems to be included at no charge in our package, so that is not up for debate.

    Anne found HeritageQuest to be frustrating, as it is composed of separate collections, and users need to know which collection to search for their particular needs. HeritageQuest also includes content that is provided elsewhere, like census records, Freedman's Bank Records, and Find-A-Grave.

    Anne noted that Fold3 has unique and sometimes exclusive content. The Fold3 content is linked out in other resources like FamilySearch and Ancestry, but it is not referenced in HeritageQuest. It has grown to include a number of scanned federal documents beyond military records, like naturalization records and Civil War Widow’s Pensions. These are full, scanned records and not just summaries of the record content.

    Kaitlin would prefer to keep HeritageQuest, but noted that HeritageQuest and Fold3 are “neck and neck” in stats; Randall concurred.

    Francie suggested that while African American Heritage is free with other subscriptions, one way to look at the issue is to ask which resource will cost less for libraries to subscribe on their own.

    Renee said that while Fold3 was specific, HeritageQuest is a general resource, which makes it good for beginners.

    Joe and Cathy indicated a preference for Fold3 over HeritageQuest, and Barb indicated that as long as Ancestry was renewed, the other resources did not matter as much to her community.

    There will likely need to be a 6 month transition period to cover whatever content may be dropped in genealogy to bridge public libraries to the end of their fiscal years and give time to plan for 2024.

    LinkedIn Library

    There was a question about LinkedIn Library from Tamar. She wondered when that resource was up for renewal. Christine answered that the current contract runs through June 30, 2024.

    Don discussed the pricing model for the contract and the expected budget for renewal. There will need to be significant negotiations in the upcoming year. Christine noted that there will be an RFP for that renewal; OPLIN has been able to use the LCO RFP as a starting point for negotiations on genealogy content this year, but online learning will require a new RFP next year. Anne suggested looking into Udemy, and Kaitlin reminded the group about Coursera for government accounts.

    Northstar

    Tamar asked how things were going with Northstar. Christine shared a brief overview of the successes so far: there have been partnerships with libraries and other state, regional, and local organizations, including the Connectivity Champions and the Northeast Ohio Digital Inclusion Alliance. The libraries that are actively using Northstar serve nearly 8 million of the nearly 12 million people in the State of Ohio.

    Funding for Year One was through an ARPA grant, and funding for Year Two is through an LSTA grant. One of the State Library Board members expressed an interest in seeing OPLIN pursue partnerships for funding subsequent years. OPLIN may look into alternative models for continuing the service in the future.

    Tamar mentioned that it is nice to have online learning modules for all of the assessments now.

  7. ADJOURNMENT

    There being no further business, Tamar Kreke moved to adjourn the meeting. Renee Hopper seconded. The motion passed, and the meeting was adjourned at 11:32 a.m.

christine

Libraries Connect Ohio

Libraries Connect Ohio oplin

Libraries Connect Ohio (LCO) is a partnership of Ohio libraries and library organizations that work together to build and provide the Ohio Web Library core collection of information resources. The principal partners are:

  • INFOhio, the statewide cooperative school library and information network, supporting and enriching teaching and learning by providing equitable access to quality resources for Ohio's PreK-12 community of students, educators, and parents.
  • The Ohio Library and Information Network (OhioLINK), a consortium of 120 Ohio college and university libraries and the State Library of Ohio, that work together to provide Ohio students, faculty, and researchers with the information they need for teaching and research.
  • The Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN), providing internet connections to Ohio public libraries and contributing to the Ohio Web Library.
  • The State Library of Ohio, a state agency serving state government and all types of libraries.

 


  1. What is Libraries Connect Ohio?
  2. Who are the Libraries Connect Ohio partners?
  3. How does Libraries Connect Ohio benefit the state?
  4. Why license and provide these resources statewide?
  5. What resources does LCO currently provide?
  6. Why does LCO provide these resources when the internet is free?
  7. How are LCO activities funded?
  8. Will LCO's funding be sustained?
  9. Who can I contact for more information?

What is Libraries Connect Ohio?

Libraries Connect Ohio (LCO) is a partnership of Ohio libraries and library organizations that work together to provide a core collection of information resources and library services that will help all Ohioans compete in the global knowledge economy. This collection of resources, called the Ohio Web Library, supports quality education, a skilled workforce, business growth, and lifelong learning in Ohio. By providing resources statewide, LCO can cost-effectively provide necessary information resources to all Ohioans, regardless of their location, age, education, or economic status.

Who are the Libraries Connect Ohio partners?
Libraries Connect Ohio is a collaborative effort of Ohio libraries and the following organizations:

How does Libraries Connect Ohio benefit the state?
The Ohio Web Library provides all Ohioans with access to the authoritative, educational resources that are necessary for life in the information-intensive 21st century, and ensure that:

  • Every school, public, and academic library throughout the state—regardless of size, location, or fiscal resources—has equal access to available online materials.
  • Ohio students have a consistent set of online resources to use, at home or at school, as they move through primary, secondary, and higher education.
  • Educators across the state have access to a broad range of online materials to support curricula and to meet core competencies and proficiencies.
  • Ohio business owners, entrepreneurs, government officials, state employees, and workers have instantaneous access to the vital information necessary to do their jobs, make decisions, develop the workforce, and promote economic growth.
  • All Ohioans are provided tools for lifelong learning, and for improving the quality of their personal lives through more informed decisions.

Why license and provide these resources statewide?
As a democracy, it is critical that access to necessary information resources be provided to all citizens. Historically, in print and even now via the internet, the highest quality information is sold commercially. Libraries have traditionally provided the means of providing information access to the masses. By working together and purchasing authoritative, commercially-provided reference and research resources at the statewide level, Libraries Connect Ohio is able to provide all Ohioans with access to the resources necessary for life in the information-intensive 21st century. Comprehensive individual purchases by libraries across the state are not affordable, and thus statewide access is not assured. If every school, college, university, and public library were to purchase these resources individually, either in print or electronic forms, the cost would be in the multi-millions of dollars. With ever-tightening local budgets, few libraries can afford these resources on their own, let alone the space to store them. Electronic access also allows for more convenient, faster, and cheaper information sharing.

What resources does LCO currently provide?
Via the Ohio Web Library, Libraries Connect Ohio provides instant access to thousands of online publications and research resources. The current Ohio Web Library includes: popular magazines, trade publications, scholarly research journals, encyclopedias, dictionaries, speeches, poems, plays, maps, satellite images of Ohio, and more. For more information about the Ohio Web Library, read the FAQ.

Why does LCO provide these resources when the internet is free?
It is a myth that the authoritative information Ohioans need for school, work, and lifelong learning is available for free on the internet. Authoritative information has never been and will never be free. When you need reliable, authoritative resources for school assignments, business research, or lifelong education, turn to the Ohio Web Library for trusted information.
While the free internet can also be useful in the research process, you have to watch out for broken links, unverified information, questionable results from search engines, and fees for full-text materials. The Ohio Web Library goes beyond the internet and provides you with access to subscription-only resources. Ohio Web Library resources are verified by editors and scholars, are created by reliable sources, and are acceptable for class assignments.

How are LCO activities funded?
As a taxpayer, you fund the Ohio Web Library through a combination of state and federal taxes. Specifically, the Ohio Web Library is funded by a federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant through the State Library of Ohio, which provides about $1.5 million per year for five years. In addition, the three LCO library networks—INFOhioOhioLINK, and OPLIN—provide about $2.5 million in state funds each year from their current budgets.

Will LCO's funding be sustained?
There is no permanent funding in place to sustain these resources, let alone expand them. The LSTA grant and matching funds that support the Ohio Web Library are likely to continue as long as funds are available and Ohio libraries/residents continue to see the value in the collection.

Who can I contact for more information?
Please send questions about Libraries Connect Ohio to director (at) oplin (dot) org. If you need help finding information or using the Ohio Web Library, please contact your local public libraryacademic library, or school library for assistance.

 

ITN VENDOR FAQ - 2022

ITN VENDOR FAQ - 2022 oplin

Preliminary FAQ

The current contracts for Ohio Web Library content run through June 30, 2023. This means that the Libraries Connect Ohio (LCO) group will engage in an Intent to Negotiate (ITN) process in 2022.

Interested vendors may have questions about that process now. Here are answers to a few that have come up already.

What is the timeline for the ITN process?

The LCO group expects the upcoming process to follow this general timeline; specific dates will be announced in the fall:

  • September 2022 - ITN documents posted
    • Released on September 21
  • September 2022 - bidder conference (real-time Q&A session)
    • 1pm on September 27 via Microsoft Teams; connection details in Ariba
  • October 2022 - deadline for written clarifying questions from bidders
    • Question due date is October 10
  • October 2022 - bids due; evaluations begin
    • Close date is October 18
  • November 2022 - committee determines bids for further negotiation
  • December 2022 to January 2023 - OhioLINK leads negotiations with prioritized bids
  • February 2023 - final selections
  • March 2023 - request for LSTA funds from State Library Board

What will the ITN look like?

The LCO group is expecting that the upcoming ITN process and documents will be very similar to the ones used in 2017-18. For reference, copies of those documents are available now:

Can you tell me more about the ITN process?

The ITN will be sponsored by The Ohio State University, which is the fiscal agent for OhioLINK. Their procurement process uses the Ariba Discovery service. More information about the procurement process is available at https://busfin.osu.edu/buy-schedule-travel/purchasing/suppliers/doing-business-ohio-state.

Can you tell me more about the LCO partners?

The LCO partners are comprised of INFOhio, OhioLINK and OPLIN. These organizations represent all PreK-12, academic, and public libraries in the state, respectively. Details about each constituency can be found in Section 3.7 of the 2017 RFP (Program Profiles).

Additional information about Ohio public libraries can also be accessed via the State Library of Ohio.

Publicly available details on OhioLINK membership can be found at https://www.ohiolink.edu/members.

Local K-12 school information is managed by the Information Technology Centers, or you can use the Ohio Department of Education website to download data.
 
You may also find the National Center for Education Statistics helpful as you explore Ohio's library landscape.

Can you tell me more about the content that the LCO partners are seeking?

The 2022 ITN will have additional details about the types of resources and the subject areas desired. In the meantime, you may refer to Section 8 of the RFP (Specifications) to see what was requested in the previous bid.

Can you tell me more about the accessibility and authentication requirements for the proposed content?

The 2022 ITN will have additional details about the measures of accessibility and types of authentication required. In the meantime, you may refer to Section 9 of the RFP (Service Elements) to see what was requested in the previous bid.  For more information about W3C WCAG 2.0 Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, you may wish to refer to https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG21/quickref.

Will there be an opportunity to share a trial?

Similar to section 4.22 of 2017 Vendor Response Form, the evaluation committee may request a trial for your product. The Vendor Response Form will ask you for a contact in case of a need for a trial.

Will there be an opportunity to share a demonstration?

Similar to section 4.23 of the 2017 Vendor Response Form, the evaluation committee may request a demonstration. The Vendor Response Form will ask if you can provide a demonstration with a two week notice.

When the RFP is open, who can I contact for help?

If you have any questions about Ariba, the procurement software used for this RFP, please refer to the Help link at the upper right corner of the Ariba websiteClicking the Help link will enable you to login and make specific requests for help with your account; the Help link will also enable you to register, reset a username, or reset a password.  Please do not contact OSU procurement with questions requiring Ariba support.

If you have any questions about the RFP process or documents after September 21, please contact Jeff Ulrich from The Ohio State University Purchasing Department at ulrich.78@osu.edu

 

Note: updates will be made to this FAQ as additional questions arise; the official ITN documents and FAQ will be posted in September 2022.