Counting Searches in Alma Persistent Search Box
We know that the usage actions in Primo VE can be retrieved in Analytics to measure patrons’ various search actions. This helps library identify the strengths and limitations of current Primo VE user interface, and review it to better meet patrons’ needs.
However, there is currently NO way to retrieve search counts from Alma’s search persistent box in Analytics.
Counting Searches in Alma Persistent Search Box
Library staff often use the Alma persistent search box to search for records for various library operations—for example, locating a bibliographic record to create a PO line—across the institution and community zones (and the network zone for consortia). At times, staff also use this search box to help patrons request print books, renew loans, and perform other circulation services. It shows the usage of the persistent search box is gradually important.
Therefore, it would be beneficial if libraries could retrieve the usage records (including search counts) for the Alma persistent search box in Analytics. This would allow libraries to better understand how staff work in Alma across different operations, such as acquisitions, cataloging, managing electronic resources, collections development, promoting newly purchased materials, weeding, stocktaking, providing circulation counter services, and others (e.g. handling course materials, ILL). Such information is factual and essential for streamlining library operations and improving library support services.
I hope Ex Libris will consider providing additional Analytics fields and areas to capture search counts from Alma’s persistent search box.
Timothy Kwan
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