{"id":187073,"date":"2024-02-20T12:24:05","date_gmt":"2024-02-20T12:24:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/?post_type=definition&p=187073"},"modified":"2024-02-20T15:28:12","modified_gmt":"2024-02-20T15:28:12","slug":"online-public-access-catalog-opac","status":"publish","type":"definition","link":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/online-public-access-catalog-opac","title":{"rendered":"Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC)"},"content":{"rendered":"

What is an Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC)?<\/span><\/h2>\n

An Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) is a digital tool that libraries use to help people find and locate books, articles, and other materials within their collections. This system has changed the way people find information in libraries, moving from the old card catalog system to a new online search system.<\/p>\n

OPACs are easy to use, offering different ways to search, like by author, title, subject, or keywords, making it quick to find what you need.<\/p>\n

Techopedia Explains the OPAC Meaning<\/h3>\n

\"Techopedia<\/p>\n

OPACs do more than just help people find what they’re looking for in the library; they also give detailed information about each item, such as if it’s available, where it’s located in the library, and its call number.<\/p>\n

Some more advanced OPAC systems even let people reserve items, get direct access to online materials, and see their loan history.<\/p>\n

The History of OPACs<\/span><\/h2>\n

Online Public Access Catalogs have significantly impacted archival research methodologies.<\/p>\n

OPAC library systems started in the 1960s<\/strong> and 1970s with simple systems mainly used by universities and research institutions. These early versions were a big change from the old card catalogs and set the stage for better systems.<\/p>\n

By the late 1970s<\/strong> and early 1980s, OPACs became easier to use, and more people could access them. Libraries began using commercial systems to manage their collections digitally<\/a>, moving away from the traditional card catalogs. This allowed people to search for books and other items on computers.<\/p>\n

From the 1990s to now<\/strong>, OPACs have gotten even better, thanks to the Internet. They now have advanced search options, can be accessed from anywhere, and work with online libraries and resources.<\/p>\n

This growth shows how libraries are moving towards managing information digitally and making sure everyone can access their collections easily. Today, OPAC library systems stand as a testament to how technology can open up access to knowledge for everyone.<\/p>\n

How OPAC Works<\/span><\/h2>\n

Understanding the OPAC meaning helps in appreciating how it acts as a digital bridge, linking users to a library’s collection via an online search system.<\/p>\n

This means the following features and benefits:<\/p>\n