| Metasearch, a
parallel search, federated search, broadcast search, cross-database
search, and search portal have become commonplace in the information
community's vocabulary. They speak to a common theme of allowing search
and retrieval to span multiple databases, sources, platforms, protocols,
and vendors at once. One-search
access to multiple resources will allow enabled libraries to offer portal
environments so all library users can enjoy the same easy searching found
in web-based services like Google. Unlike Google, however, a library's
metasearch services must offer access to multiple database targets with a
variety of content and accessibility.
To move toward industry solutions, NISO is
sponsoring a Metaserach Initiative to enable:
- metasearch service providers to offer
more effective and responsive services;
- content providers to deliver enhanced
content and protect their intellectual property;
- libraries to deliver services that
distinguish their services from Google and other free web services.
Andrew Pace (NCSU) co-chairs this group,
and John Little (Duke) and Tim Shearer (UNC) serve on Committees. Come and
learn about the NISO Metasearch Initiative activities, and about local
metasearch uses. |
