The Mandarin ZServer (Z39.50 server software) optional module allows anyone with Internet access and Z39.50 client software to access the library catalog. ZServer is Z39.50 level three compliant.
Virtual Union Catalog
A virtual union catalog is an aggregation of individual databases containing cat- alog collections. ZServer allows any library to be part of a virtual union catalog. A virtual union catalog can be created by installing ZServer on all library automation servers and commercially available Z39.50 client software on all client workstations. When a search is executed, results can be gathered from an individual collection, selected collections, or all collections in the directory. Results are returned, as well as item locations. Performance will depend on the total number of sites, circulation and patron workstations, and the communications infrastructure (T1 lines are recommended).
Licensing
ZServer is installed on the user’s library automation server(s). ZServer is site licensed and there is no restriction on the number of client workstations that can access the database via ZServer. A ZServer license can be used by a maximum of five sites; there is an additional per site charge for more than five sites.
