Discovery updates 9/6/2018

Created by Emily Toner
Last updated: Sept 07, 2018
2 min read

On August 13 2018, Temple University Libraries launched Blacklight as the enhanced version of the Library Search. During these early weeks in production, the Library Technology Development team has been focused on addressing reported bugs and issues submitted by library staff and patrons. Below is a list of major Blacklight updates and ongoing issues that we are aware of and working on.

Major updates from 8/13 to 9/6

  • Removed limit on number of loans displayed for My Library Account (previously only displaying 50 items or less)

  • Fixed book cover thumbnail bug (previously displaying wrong images in some cases)

  • Fixed bug where the availability status was not loading for items that are lost, missing, or not in place

  • Fixed issue with Aeon requests for SCRC materials: Reading room requests could not be accessed unless users logged into My Library Account. Since many SCRC users are not affiliated with Temple, a separate button was temporarily added for these type of requests, until we can find a more permanent solution. 

  • Worked on addressing back-end issues with digitization and booking requests

  • Added "Back" button on the Bookmarks page

In addition to the major updates notes above, the development team has addressed a variety of smaller bugs that affect both the front-end user interface and back-end infrastructure.

Major issues that we are in the process of reviewing

  • Lack of sort options and date facet in Articles Search: This was an outstanding issue with our Primo Central Index integration, which we are working to resolve ASAP. 

  • Bug with Refworks export: This was working as expected at the time of launch, but is now broken. We’re talking with ProQuest to address this. (We would also like to add Refworks to the Articles Search export.)

  • Lack of location and call number information in text messages and email exports

  • Items from other libraries not transferrable via Blacklight when there are copies on reserve at current pickup location, which should be allowed based on Alma rules

  • Ongoing back-end workflow issues with digitization requests

  • Availability status display not fully compatible with Internet Explorer

Note that this list is not comprehensive and does not include all of bugs/issues that have been reported. If you have submitted input, it has been recorded and will be reviewed by the Blacklight team. In addition to the items above, LTD has also received broader feedback from library staff about potential enhancements and new features, which will be considered for future development work. This includes improving the export features and addressing the navigational issues moving between the different parts of the Library Search.

Library staff may continue to provide input about the Library Search via tul-web-support@temple.edu and/or our public feedback form. Library Technology Development's first open session of the semester will also be held on September 7th from 1:00-2:00pm in the Paley Lecture Hall. During this session, Emily Toner will lead a discussion about the Library Search/Blacklight, addressing questions and feedback from library staff.