OCLC's public service systems: EPIC and FirstSearch

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Bénaud, Claire-Lise^{; *} | Bordeianu, Sever

Affiliations: University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM, USA

Correspondence: [*] Correspondence to: C.L. Bénaud, General Library, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.

Abstract: OCLC entered a new phase of information delivery with the introduction of EPIC in 1990 and FirstSearch in 1991. Both systems are designed for use in public services: EPIC by librarians, FirstSearch by library patrons. EPIC functions like other traditional online services on the market, both in terms of searching and pricing. In contrast, FirstSearch incorporates innovative searching and pricing features that set it apart from traditional online search systems. Both offer access to the vast OCLC Online Union Catalog. This article will analyze the similarities and differences, strengths and weaknesses of the two new OCLC services. The following aspects are discussed: databases offered on each system, ease of searching, holdings information, training, and pricing. While the two systems provide adequate access to online information, their major strength lies in their extremely competitive pricing structure.

DOI: 10.3233/ISU-1992-12208

Journal: Information Services & Use, vol. 12, no. 2, pp. 167-176, 1992