Re: ILL Module

["P. Matthew Polcyn" <PPolcyn@xxxxxxxxxx>]

We have been using the ILL module for about a year now.  Overall, I'd
say it works pretty well--for us anyway. Our volume is pretty low at
approximately 40 requests per month (or 10 per week) for materials from
other libraries.  About 90 to 95 percent of our requests are for journal
articles since our statewide consortium allows patron initiated
inter-library lending and borrowing.  Thus most request for books bypass
the ILL dept.

Regardless, what I like the most about the module is how well it
integrates with the circulation module, i.e. sending pickup notices,
allowing patrons to check the status of their ILL requests, etc.  It
really streamlines things for the circulation people.  Items that need
to be returned can be checked out and in just like any other item.  

The module also give some basic statistical reports.  However, they're
very basic and really can't substitute for the detail in OCLC's reports.

The biggest drawbacks in using the ILL module is that the only
communication that takes place between the Innopac and OCLC's ILL system
is the initial submission of the request.  While it's great that the
module works well with OCLC's Direct Requesting feature, it is
unfortunate that every other aspect (receiving the item, returning the
item, etc.) must still be done through OCLC directly--whether through
the MicroEnhancer or Passport.  So obviously, when an item arrives, one
must update both systems (Innopac and OCLC).  

So, to summarize, it works well enough for us.  I also know two large
research libraries that use the module and I know that one (with daily
activity in the hundreds) seems to like the module pretty well despite
its shortcomings.

If you have any other questions, just let me know.

HTH,

Matt

Aurora Ioanid wrote:
> 
> We are in the same situation. Please post to the list.
> Thank you
> Aurora Ioanid
> Monmouth University
> 
> "Harvey, Suzanne" wrote:
> 
> > We are considering purchase of the ILL module.  We would appreciate any
> > feedback, which explains the advantages and disadvantages of using the
> > module.  An estimate of how many ILL transactions you do a week, would be
> > helpful in evaluating your responses.  What do you especially like about the
> > module?  What doesn't work especially well?  Does the module save you time
> > vs. a manual system?  How well does the interface with OCLC's ILL system
> > work?
> >
> > Again, thanks for your responses.
> >
> > Suzanne Harvey
> > Seattle University Law Library
> > 206-398-4094
> > sharvey@xxxxxxxxxx

-- 

P. Matthew Polcyn
Reference/Catalog Librarian
Courtright Memorial Library
One Otterbein College
Westerville OH  43081

Office:	   (614) 823-1026
Fax:	   (614) 823-1921
E-Mail:	   PPolcyn@xxxxxxxxxx