Two new features have recently been added to our online Library Search system.
Saving Library Search searches between sessions
You can now permanently save searches and filters you run, between Library Search sessions, to the cloud by using either a Microsoft OneDrive or Google Drive account. Previously Library Search would only allow you to temporarily save items from a results page during a single session, although RefWorks can be used to export citation results from the service.
You can save a search, including any filters or facets you have selected to refine your search, by clicking on the small star icon as shown below:
The small star icon is located in the Library Search box itself:
You will then be given the option to permanently save the search by using a Microsoft OneDrive or Google Drive account (you can also rename your search should you wish to do so at this point):
You will have to select one of the software options (either Microsoft or Google), sign in to your preferred provider and allow Library Search to connect to your personal drive account.
Once your Google or Microsoft account is linked to our Library Search tool, and you are correctly signed in to either of the drive accounts, you will be able to view permanently saved searches whenever you use Library Search.
You can view your saved searches in Library Search by clicking on the large star icon as shown below:
The number of saved searches is noted in small text next to the large star icon:
If you are not signed in to your Google or Microsoft drive account whilst using Library Search, you will only be allowed to temporarily store results in a single search session or export results to RefWorks (as before).
TinyURLs
When wanting to copy a Library Search result link, you can now take advantage of shorter URLs (provided by TinyURL) generated by the online service. These shorter URLs have replaced the long, encrypted Permalinks Library Search formerly created.
To save a Library Search result record, you click on the Permanent Link icon as shown below:
The Permanent Link icon is one of the actions available for you to select for each individual Library Search result. Once you have selected the Permanent Link option, Library Search generates a TinyURL which you can copy to create a permanent link to the citation record.
We hope that this new functionality will improve Library Search’s usability for DMU students and staff searching for electronic journal articles, e-books and other online library content.
