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News from South Carolina's Virtual Library
Spring 2010
scdiscus.org
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SmartSearch by DISCUS Is Here!
SmartSearch logo
DISCUS took another great stride forward on March 15th with the launch of SmartSearch by DISCUS, the new search tool and home access authentication solution. SmartSearch retrieves results from multiple DISCUS databases with a single search and is available on the homepage as well as the subject and grade level pages. 

SmartSearch also enables easier access to the DISCUS resources for users at physical locations other than media centers and libraries. With new geolocation technology that operates behind-the-scenes, SmartSearch recognizes computer IP addresses originating in South Carolina. Most home users of DISCUS will now be automatically authenticated as authorized users and allowed seamless access to the resources. The statewide username and password continues to be in place as an alternative access method when needed.

Both a 10-minute video overview of SmartSearch by DISCUS and a list of FAQs are available for your use. 
Survey Seeks Your Opinion
Would you be willing to rank your top ten DISCUS-provided databases?  Are there subject areas or formats that are not currently in the resources that you feel should be represented?  Are you familiar with a really effective resource that you'd like to recommend for future licensing?  These questions are part of a survey designed to assist DISCUS with forming a collection development plan and for database evaluation purposes.

Please take a few minutes to complete this brief online survey about current and future content needs.  Your opinion matters in shaping the exciting future of your statewide virtual library. 
New Products in the DISCUS Collection
Career eBook Collection
NetLibrary logoAs part of the South Carolina State Library's Workforce Development Initiative, a high-quality customized set of career related electronic books has been added to the line-up of resources. The set is provided by NetLibrary and Lyrasis and is made possible with funds from the Library Services and Technology Act.  Titles in the collection are focused on such topics as career selection, résumé and cover letter writing, interviewing, changing careers, test-taking strategies and more. Searching can be done across the entire collection and also in individual titles. Through the creation of a free account, users can take advantage of special NetLibrary features to save favorite titles and add personal notes about individual ebooks.

CultureGrams
CultureGrams logoThis product provides concise cultural and statistical snapshots of every country recognized by the United Nations. CultureGrams reports contain maps, flags, symbols, history, economy, geography, population and more.  With separate editions for World, States, Canadian Provinces, and Kids, CultureGrams is proving to be a popular and effective addition to DISCUS.

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Alternate Access Page to Bookmark
URL imageDuring the infrequent times when the DISCUS Web site may be unavailable, users still have uninterrupted access to the resources through an alternate access page.  Check your bookmark to make sure it points correctly to this URL:  http://www.statelibrary.sc.gov/school.html

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Public Libraries and DISCUS Links
The resources in DISCUS provide an incredible reference collection to public library patrons in South Carolina: consumer information, current events, political awareness, business research, lifelong learning and more!

If you work at a public library whose Web site contains individual links to DISCUS databases, how "healthy" are the links?  Do they perhaps need a substantial overhaul or just a bit of TLC? 

There are close to 40 databases in the current DISCUS collection.  Do your patrons have access to all of them?  Does your public library Web site adhere to these required guidelines for linking to DISCUS?

Questions about linking to the resources can be emailed to DISCUSoffice@statelibrary.sc.gov or directed to Ruth at 803-734-4627.

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Learn to Use DISCUS Products Through Free Webinars
Several of the vendors that provide the DISCUS resources have ongoing training calendars with free, high-quality webinars that are extremely easy to register for and access.  Take a look at the upcoming sessions using the vendor links below.  Scroll through the list of trainings to locate webinars focused on products in the DISCUS collection.   You're certain to find one that interests you!
Interested in Summer Training?
Do you have time in your busy summer schedule to include some training on the use of the DISCUS resources?  If your answer is yes, the DISCUS Office would like to know your training preferences.  Please give us some feedback on these simple questions. 

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Computer training session Volunteer Trainers Available
An enthusiastic and talented group of people has stepped up to the plate to offer time and expertise to train others in using the resources in the DISCUS collection.  Would your institution benefit from having an onsite training tailored to your local needs?  If so, we may have a volunteer trainer to accomodate you.  A minimum of 10 participants is required to schedule a trainer.  Email your request to DISCUSoffice@statelibrary.sc.gov or call Ruth at 803-734-4627.         
Mug Winners at SCASL Conference
The South Carolina Association of School Librarians (SCASL) annual conference was held on March 24-26 in North Charleston and DISCUS staff were pleased to attend.  Those who stopped by the State Library exhibit booth were encouraged to complete a prize entry form offering feedback and recommendations to DISCUS.  It was a pleasure to send insulated beverage mugs filled with promotional items and candy to these lucky winners!
  • Fredda Shaw of Blue Ridge Elementary School in Oconee County
  • Merry Valkenburg of Dixie High School in Abbeville County
  • Becky LeBron of Moultrie Middle School in Charleston County
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In This Issue
SmartSearch by DISCUS Is Here!
Survey Seeks Your Opinion
New Products in the DISCUS Collection
Alternate Access Page to Bookmark
Public Libraries and DISCUS Links
Learn to Use DISCUS Products Through Free Webinars
Interested in Summer Training?
Volunteer Trainers Available
Mug Winners at SCASL Conference


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DISCUS will be represented at these upcoming events!

DISCUS logo

SC Home Educators Association Annual Conference, June 18-19

Upstate Technology Conference, June 22-23

SC Library Association Annual Conference, October 20-22

EdTech Conference, October 27-29


 
DISCUS is a service of the South Carolina State Library.