We used Gale Virtual Reference Library when it was part of iCONN for the past two years. It is an amazing resource and worth every penny, if you can afford it. I do not know if you can integrate GVRL with Destiny, but I'm not sure that it matters at the high school level.  Students need to conduct research using tools other than Destiny, and since GVRL is so packed with high-quality material, it is a good way to convince students of the benefits of using databases.  

I am not familiar with other similar other virtual reference vendors, however, so there may be other great resources out there.   

Sara

Sara Whalen
Teacher-Librarian
Hamden High School


On Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 7:56 AM, Tichy, Joan <JTICHY@sheltonpublicschools.org> wrote:
I prefer Follett.  I have Destiny as our OPAC and the integration of materials is seamless. The MARC record matches perfectly and the OPAC indicates eBook or print.  I use other products and they are easy too, but you need to link to the website and use a website or you tech department needs to set up an IP exchange.  I am not certain if there is a way to make Gale integrate as seamlessly into the catalog.

Mason Crest just had a great deal.  They gave you a hard copy with you eBook collection for free.    They had a great selection.  I like to use both.  Joan

-----Original Message-----
From: casl-l-bounces@mylist.net [mailto:casl-l-bounces@mylist.net] On Behalf Of Geri Dineen
Sent: Friday, January 31, 2014 7:19 AM
To: casl-l@mylist.net
Subject: [CASL-L] virtual reference collection

We are looking at building a virtual reference library to replace outdated materials and increase access. We do have some e-books from Follett that offer unlimited access, but are also looking at the Gale Virtual Reference Library collection. This would be a sizable financial investment for us.



Does anyone have any experience with this?



Thanks for your help,



Geri Dineen

Library Media Specialist
RHAM High School
Hebron CT 06248
860-228-9474, ext 3317

_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
CASL-L@mylist.net
http://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l

The Board of Education complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws prohibiting the exclusion of any person from any of its educational programs or activities
because of race, color, religious creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, past or present
history of mental disorder, physical disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by Connecticut state and/or general nondiscrimination laws.

_______________________________________________
CASL-L mailing list
CASL-L@mylist.net
http://mylist.net/listinfo/casl-l