NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J., Jan. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- A series of new features will be added to Bowker Syndetic Solutions™, the popular OPAC and discovery layer enrichment tool, significantly enhancing the utility of library OPACs. The new features include enhanced content elements for video games, music, movies, TV shows and journals, as well as a new Syndetics app for patron usage within Facebook.

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"OPACs and discovery layers are the primary gateway for patrons in to the library collection. Syndetic Solutions has a mission to continually improve discovery, connecting users with the information they need in their borrowing or purchasing decisions," said Sharon Lubrano, Vice-President and General Manager of Bowker®, a ProQuest affiliate.

In early 2013, Syndetic Solutions will make its Facebook application available at no additional cost for all subscribers. The app will enable libraries to provide catalog access within Facebook, connecting the library to the social networks of its users. Library patrons will be able to search for titles, review cover art, summaries, reviews and share or comment on titles they find with their Facebook friends.  

New enriched content will also become available in the first quarter of 2013. In the U.S. and U.K., video game covers, title, rating number, Maturity Standard Rating (think "Everyone" or "Teen") will deepen the information available to patrons through the OPAC. Syndetic Solutions' cover image options will expand to include premier Serial Cover Image content from Ulrich's, the acclaimed global serials directory. Further, new U.K. audio/video content will be available through Syndetics A/V elements. Through Syndetic Solutions, patrons will be able to find reviews and descriptive information about entertainment content for more than 4 million TV shows and movies. Further, music titles will be enriched with reviews, annotations, profiles and covers. 

Syndetic Solutions is a service of Bowker, an affiliate of global information company ProQuest. To learn more click here.

About Bowker® (www.bowker.com)

Bowker is the world's leading provider of bibliographic information and management solutions designed to help publishers, booksellers, and libraries better serve their customers. Creators of products and services that make books easier for people to discover, evaluate, order, and experience, the company also generates research and resources for publishers, helping them understand and meet the interests of readers worldwide. Bowker, a ProQuest  affiliate, is the official ISBN Agency for the United States and its territories. The company is headquartered in New Providence, New Jersey, with additional operations in England and Australia.

SOURCE Bowker