SIRS has begun shipping its Mandarin M3 client/server-based automated library system. The product includes cataloging, circulation, Web-based patron access catalog, Web gateway, and Z39.50 linkages. Unlike many products aimed at the school and small public library markets, Mandarin M3 also includes optional acquisitions and serials control modules. The gateway supports URL field 856, which allows patrons to search sites on the Web after looking for a subject in the patron access catalog. The product is usually sold as a software-only pack-age, but the company will provide hardware, installation, and training, if required.
The file server must be a Pentium with at least 64 MB of memory. Disk storage must be a minimum of 3 MB per 1,000 titles. TCP/IP is required. The clients should be Pentium-based machines with at least 24 MB of memory and Windows 95 or NT. Macintosh patron access catalog workstations are also supported, preferably System 8 Power FCs with at least 16 MB of memory.
The base price of the M3 system is $3,500; with the Z39.50 server and Web gateway, the price rises to $6,000, plus $100 for each Z39.50 client. The acquisitions and serials control modules are $500 each.
The vendor strongly recommends a minimum of three days of on-site training. The one-year service and updates option are available only to libraries that have contracted for this training. Prices are quoted on request.
[Contact: SIRS Mandarin, (800) 232-SIRS; www.sirs.com.]
