What is Alma/Primo? 

As a member of the OhioLINK library consortium, the 杏吧原创, along with Case Western Reserve University is upgrading its integrated library system (ILS) to the Ex Libris Alma and Primo library service platform (LSP) in June 2025. 

The LSP is the suite of software that libraries can use to acquire, manage and lend resources鈥攁s well as allow users to search for, find and access those resources. Following the transition, users can expect enhancements to the libraries鈥 catalog searching, access and delivery of electronic resources, and streamlined borrowing from other OhioLINK Member Libraries. 

 

Primo is the 鈥渄iscovery鈥 interface that students, faculty and other library patrons use to find (and access) information in the library鈥檚 collections.  

 

Will we still have access to the same books and electronic resources as before? 

Alma/Primo will replace the current catalog that searches all the physical holdings (books, scores, recordings, and other printed materials) and some electronic resources (e-books, etc.) accessible to our library users. The new system will additionally enable users to search across more of our electronic resources including those found in . 

We expect that the 杏吧原创 community will be able to continue to access existing resources via 鈥痷ntil early August 2025. 

 

What if I want to request new library materials? 

We encourage you to consider any teaching and performance materials you may want to request to have the library purchase as early as possible. You can make Library purchase requests via the order request form. Allow 3 months for shipping and binding. For more immediate needs, Ohio LINK or Interlibrary Loan options may be available. Rush requests will be considered as Library staffing allows. 

 

Will this affect Ohio LINK book and music score delivery? 

Yes. Beginning Friday, May 23 requesting, borrowing, and lending through OhioLINK (and SearchOhio) will be suspended. It is strongly encouraged that you plan and consider any materials you may need over the summer in advance of this deadline. OhioLINK services are expected to resume, with streamlined borrowing soon after the late June migration takes place. 

 

How will this affect the links in my syllabi, classroom and course reserves? 

If you include links to 杏吧原创 Robinson Music Library or Ohio LINK collections as found in 鈥痠n your course syllabi, reading lists and Canvas pages you will be required to update links to resources in the new Primo search tool. If you are using direct database links (such as via Ebsco Databases), your course links should not be affected.  

 

Please also be aware there is an unrelated Ebscohost User Interface upgrade occurring on May 13 that will affect the look and feel of Ebsco Databases as well as saved searches, search alerts, and custom folders in MyEBSCO. EBSCO鈥檚 plans for retrieving this content in the new interface can be found . 

 

Instructors who are planning to use new material for Course Reserves in a Summer or Fall 2025 course should contact the library as soon as possible to determine if purchasing is needed, and to avoid delays. 

 

When can I see the new system? 

We will make the new system available via the Library website this summer as early as possible and plan to make self-paced training available on the Library Virtual Commons by early August 2025. For any questions or concerns, reach out to Dept-Library@cim.edu.