Wishart Library at Algoma University in Sault Ste Marie Launches Two New Online Databases
Wishart Library Launches Two New Online Databases (24-Jul-2008)
Building Futures by Preserving the Past
Wishart Library Launches Two New Online Databases
The Arthur A. Wishart Library at Algoma University is making it easier for the public to access archival resources and student and faculty-driven research with the launch of two new online databases. Both of the searchable databases can be accessed via the Wishart Library website located at www.algomau.ca/library.
Hallmarks of an independent university are its unique archival and special collections that collect, preserve and provide access to research materials for students, faculty and the larger community.
"The Wishart Library has been building unique collections throughout the institution's history as an affiliate college of Laurentian, but it now is fulfilling the role of an independent university library by bringing these collections to the world," said Ken Hernden, Library Director at Algoma University.
The library has launched two online databases to provide this access. The first holds records for the university's archives and special collections.
"We're bringing some significant regional collections such as Glady McNeice's research on the Ermatinger family, the archives of labour leader, politician and author John Ferris, and the St. Mary's River Marine Society collection to greater public and scholarly notice", said Hernden.
The second database is an institutional repository called DigitalAlgoma designed to hold new student and faculty driven research, often referred to as "born-digital" research. Included in the DigitalAlgoma archives are over two hundred honours theses from past Algoma University psychology and computer science students.
"We're extremely excited about DigitalAlgoma", said Hernden. "Universities generate research that is often never published through traditional methods or widely disseminated to the public. DigitalAlgoma is a way to show the world and the community just how good the student and faculty research is at Algoma University."
Using a family of flexible and powerful knowledge management tools from Inmagic's DB/Text, library staff worked with Andornot Consulting, a Canadian-based consulting firm, to customize solutions that met the specific needs of these projects. The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund supported the project by helping to fund co-op students to assist staff to process, catalogue and digitize materials.
For more information on the projects please visit www.algomau.ca/library or www.andornot.com .
About Algoma University
Algoma University is Ontario's newest university. Home to approximately 1,200 students, Algoma U offers a wide variety of liberal arts and sciences degree options including programs in Computer Science, Business Administration, Fine Arts, Community Economic & Social Development, and Biology. Algoma U is committed to offering a personal education experience unlike any university in Ontario. To learn more, visit www.algomau.ca .