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Talis Base FAQs

For the latest information about Talis Base, access the Talis Base forum via www.talis.com/forums. Alternatively, call 0870 400 5000 and ask to speak to a member of the Talis Bass team, or send an email to base@talis.com.


What is Talis Base?

Talis Base is a collection of high quality bibliographic databases that can be quickly accessed from a single search, allowing you to select the best record from your preferred source.

Do I need the Talis Library Management System to run Talis Base?

No. Any LMS capable of running z39.50 based searches can run Talis Base.

How will Talis Base benefit my organisation?

  • By providing access to more than 29 million records, the largest database of bibliographic records with a UK orientation
  • By delivering fast, standards-based searching that queries multiple datasets from a single search
  • By allowing you to contribute and share records with other libraries and prestigious sources (such as the British Library and the Library of Congress)

How will Talis Base benefit my customers?

  • By optimising collections to help customers find the resources they need.
  • By minimising the need for local record creation, ensuring materials reach shelves quicker.
  • By freeing your cataloguing staff to spend more time delivering front line services.
  • By lowering the cost of procurement, allowing resources to be directed towards improving stock.

What does Talis Base do?

Talis Base searches dozens of commercial and co-operative data suppliers through a single query. It provides unlimited access to more than 29 million records available from 20 databases, minimising the need for local record creation by providing quality bibliographic data for real-time download to your system.

Can Talis Base fit in with my existing cataloguing workflow?

Yes. Talis Base fully supports the new MARC21 and ISBN-13 standards. All the data is available from a single z39.50 target, allowing any z39.50 enabled LMS to search all data sets. If you aren't able to use z39.50 to integrate with our services, Talis Base is also available via a simple Web-based interface, allowing you to find and download records outside of your LMS.

What data suppliers does Talis Base access?

Talis Base allows you to search records from a number of prestigious sources including The British Library, The Library of Congress, BDS, Nielsen BookData and the Talis Union Catalogue database.

How does Talis Base improve the quality of my bibliographic data?

Cataloguers can upgrade ‘thinner’ records (perhaps early versions used for ordering) with the best record available, increasing their accuracy and richness.

Can I share my original cataloguing with other libraries?

Yes. In addition to empowering you to select the best record available, Talis Base encourages libraries to share their holdings with the cataloguing community. Through this combination of co-operative and commercial suppliers, cataloguers can find historic records - including rare and out of print materials - under a fair and open license agreement.

How fast is searching in Talis Base?

Talis Base supports both Bath and US National Profiles with average search speeds (querying millions of records) taking just a few seconds.

Can I see Talis Base in action?

Yes. Register for a free trial today.

When is Talis Base available?

Talis Base is currently in limited release to our beta test customers. Talis Base is scheduled to reach general availability in early December 2007. Please check the Talis Base blog for updates.

How much does Talis Base cost?

Talis Base is charged as a yearly subscription, so you can run unlimited searches at no extra cost. Databases are continually kept up to date, so you’ll be searching the most recent information with no need to manage the data yourself. For specific pricing information, please contact sales@talis.com.

How do I find out more about Talis Base?

For more information about Talis Base, contact us directly at base@talis.com. Alternatively, you can download the Talis Base Product Brief.