Library unveils redesigned website, new search tools

Pamela McLaughlin
(315) 443-9788

Syracuse University Library has launched its redesigned website, found at http://library.syr.edu. The new website, which has been available in a beta version since mid-spring, has a completely new look and incorporates several new tools for locating and organizing resources.

The new search box on the home page includes Discover (Start tab), a new and improved search tool for the library catalog and other collections. Discover is intuitive and user friendly, and enables users to easily refine searches using a variety of facets and tags. A number of other features will be added to Discover over the next several weeks.

Access to databases has also been restructured, powered by MetaLib. Individual databases are listed by name, keyword and subject, and also grouped by discipline or format into “QuickSets” for federated searching. Other enhancements include Mybrary, a tool for creating personalized collections of library resources, and a new collection of subject and course-related resource guides, found at http://researchguides.library.syr.edu/.

User input has been an important component of the website’s development, and user testing on the new site will continue. Developers will be adding content and making other refinements to the site throughout the summer. A link to the previous website will be available for a limited time following the official launch on Aug. 25. The library Web team is interested in receiving feedback on the new site and welcomes contributions to the Feedback Survey on the site.