Help, I’m Lost! Developing a Library Mapping System without Breaking the Bank

摘要

Large libraries share a common challenge--helping patrons find materials. The Wayne State University Library System launched its library mapping application in February 2010, designed to help locate materials in the five WSU libraries. The system works within the catalog to show the location of materials, as well as provides a web form for use at the reference desk to lookup items by call number. Developed using open-source technology, it requires only minimal effort to update using a unique call number overlay mechanism. In addition to mapping shelved materials, the system provides information for any of the over three-hundred collections held by the WSU Libraries. Patrons can do more than just locate a book on a shelf, such as learn where to locate reserve items, how to access closed collections, or get driving maps to extension center libraries. Developed to improve access to physical collections and to assist with reference services, it provides an example of how to map diverse holdings with a minimum of technology and expense.