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GetRef

GetRef is a fully functional cross-searching tool that enables the user to present a simple search string to multiple services and receive the matching results from each. GetRef is the fruit of the Xgrain (cross-grain) project, which looked at ways to develop a cross-searching (federated searching) mechanism for Abstract and Indexing databases and other bibliographic services in the JISC Information Environment.

GetRef is available to the UK FE and HE communities.

• Screenshots of version 2 of the GetRef user interface

Please contact edina@ed.ac.uk if you would like to test GetRef. We will create a simple profile for your institution, which will use the appropriate credentials to give you access to subscription services from within GetRef.

GetRef will allow searching of bibliographic targets that provide a suitable interface (usually this will be Z39.50, though GetRef will support other standards such as SRW/CQL, and will support non-standard interfaces where documentation is made available). The targets currently available represent those that we have been asked to provide; this is not a comprehensive list.

GetRef has the following features:

• May be used directly by the end-user, or may be accessed by a Library portal via a Z39.50 interface.
• Provides OpenURL links which may be resolved by any institutional resolver service, such as SFX or LinkFinderPlus.
• EDINA will configure targets (bibliographic databases) and each institution's local OPAC on an institution by institution basis, removing the need for library staff to spend time on setup and configuration.
• Local branding to retain the look-and-feel common to an institution's other local services.
• Provides a variety of online learning materials which cover cross-searching concepts and gives guidance to users on conducting research activities.

For more information please contact edina@ed.ac.uk.