The Interlibrary Loan Department can now provide electronic desktop delivery of documents via Prospero.

Prospero, a Web-based document delivery system, was developed as a complement to the Ariel software system. Ariel is a product that allows libraries to use the Internet to exchange documents through interlibrary loan. Ariel has been available at the UAMS Library since April 2000 and Prospero has been available since November 2000.

Prospero consists of two software modules. The first is a staff module that captures and converts TIFF files, Ariel's native format, into PDF files. The converted files are saved to a directory on the library web server. A patron database maintains authentication information, consisting of a patron's email address and a randomly assigned personal identification number (PIN). When a document is processed, an email message is automatically sent to the patron regarding the availability of the document.

The second Prospero module is the web server/patron interface. Patrons can access Prospero from any web browser using their email address and PIN. After being authenticated, a web page is generated that contains a list of the patron's documents. The patron can simply select and download the required document. Documents will be removed automatically from the system after viewing them five times or after 14 days on the system to comply with copyright. Patrons can also delete documents directly from the web interface.

The Library understands that this new method may not appeal to all patrons. It is important to note that patron equipment and connection issues are significant with this new service. The loading of large PDF files can be slow, especially with a dial-up connection. The patron must have the latest version of the Adobe reader loaded. The reader is available for FREE at www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html.

Printing can be extremely slow on non-laser printers. Also, we have received reports of problems accessing documents when using America Online. You should report any problems as soon as possible and the staff will be happy to work with you to identify the best method for delivery of requests.

Some of our Interlibrary Loan suppliers do not have the capability to deliver in an electronic format. When we can only receive an item in print format, you will need to pick up your request at the Circulation Desk after receiving notification that it is available.

If you have any questions or would like to test this new enhanced service, call Lynne Finister at 686-8680 or email her at FinisterLynneD@uams.edu.