Page 69 - M5 User Guide

OPAC Overview OPAC Overview

The OPAC allows patrons to search your library collection from any computer with a Web browser. Please
note, the search bar is persistent throughout the OPAC, enabling patrons to enter a new search at any time
using one of the three search methods described below.

A “search results” button is also available below the standard search bar, which will return the user to the most
recent list of search results.

The OPAC offers three different search methods:

Standard Search – A basic keyword search method that allows the patron to select an index to be
searched. This method recognizes Boolean logic, truncation, and phrase searches. The Standard
Search bar is persistent throughout the OPAC, and a new search can be initiated anytime by simply

entering a new search term and pressing “Enter” or clicking the search button

• Enhanced Search – A more advanced search method that offers search flexibility and options.

Patrons can enter simple or complex queries, search by material type, and use index browsing.

• Visual Search – An easy point-and-click graphical search method. Patrons click visually descriptive

graphics to narrow their searches from broad topics to more defined sub-topics. This accesses a
curated list of search results in the catalog and/or external online resources. (For more information
about how to configure visual search results, please click the “Visual Search” link above).

The following widgets are currently available on the OPAC homepage. We are actively working to provide
additional widgets, please email support@mlasolutions.com with any requests that you would like to add.

• Visual Search – Please refer to the Visual Search section in Setup for more information.

• Recommended Reading – Admin users can select items to display on the OPAC homepage so that

patrons can click the image to access item details directly. Please refer to the Recommended Reading
section in Setup for more information.

• Gallery – Admin users can upload images to highlight on the homepage. Please refer to the Gallery

section in Setup for more information.

The following features enhance the search session:

• The “Standard Search” feature also includes autocomplete functionality that will provide search

suggestions as the user enters his or her search term. Autocomplete suggestions are based on the

© 2014 Mandarin Library Automation, Inc. All rights reserved. 68 of 192