Library portal
A library portal is an interface to access library resources and services through a single access and management point for users: for example, by combining the circulation and catalog functions of an integrated library system (ILS) with additional tools and facilities. == Definition == A library portal is defined as "a combination of software components that unify the user experience of discovering and accessing information" in contrast to a "single technology" to provide "services that support discovery, access and effective use of information." == Major elements == In addition to the basic functions of access to the library catalog, and a user's subscription records, significant elements of a library portal normally include: "Metasearching tools, browsable interfaces, and online reference help", which aid in the discovery process Links to full-text articles, OpenURL, Interlibrary loan (ILL) or document delivery, for material the library does not own Citation management software, user preferences services, "knowledge management tools" More recently, the focus has been on the discovery goal, which has led to even more difficulties in defining a library portal.