Services

NEOS Information

New Library Services Platform

Since 1995, the King’s University Library has been a member of the NEOS Consortium.  This included a shared catalogue and patron accounts allowing the easy exchange of library resources. However, due to evolving technology, this arrangement was no longer sustainable. To stay current with technological advancements and better serve our patrons, The King’s University Library has now implemented WMS Discovery, as our new Library Service Platform (LSP), which has:

  • Improved access to The King’s University Library materials
  • Expanded the discoverability of and access to our library electronic collections
  • Presents print and electronic formats in a user-friendly manner
  • Explores new ways of sharing resources and collaborating in the future

NEOS libraries still share physical items with each other, just differently. All NEOS member's users can go to any NEOS library and register their library card and get an account at that library. Any holds, borrowing and returning is done directly with that library. For King's students and faculty this means that you get to go to NEOS libraries, create your own account, and no longer need to go through King's library.

Borrowing NEOS items

Local Edmonton NEOS libraries

You are able to search for NEOS items in the King's University catalogue by adjusting the filters when searching. By default, the search results will only display items available at The King's University. To expand your search, locate the "Held by Library" filter, on the search results. This is on the left side of your screen if you are on a computer. If you are on a mobile device, you must select "Group & Refine This Search" at the top of the page to open the filters.

You can expand your search with the following options:

  • The King's University: This option is selected by default and will show you all the items available in The King's University Library.
  • Edmonton NEOS Libraries: This option will show you items available in other NEOS libraries in Edmonton, but will not include any libraries outside of the Edmonton Area
  • Outside Edmonton NEOS Libraries: Selecting this option will show you items available in NEOS libraries outside of Edmonton. All of these libraries are located within Alberta. Keep in mind, though, that you must physically visit the library you wish to borrow items from in order to access them. Any items borrowed from these libraries must be returned to the same library. Be aware when selecting this filter that it will show you items that will require significant travel time.

If you wish to borrow a book from a NEOS library, located in Edmonton, you must visit that library in person. This is a lot faster than relying on interlibrary loans. Check the hours of the library you wish to visit to ensure that it is open and staffed. When there, go to the service desk to set up an account. Once an account is set up, you will have borrowing privileges at that library and can access their collection, place holds and borrow and return at that library. 

When using other libraries, keep the following in mind:

  • Libraries have different rules and procedures; ensure you are familiar with the borrowing policies of the library you are using. Be respectful of the library's rules and ensure items are kept in good condition
  • Access to certain items may be limited depending on the library and the item type. Before taking a long journey to visit a library for a specific item, you may wish to check with the library to ensure you will have access to it as a NEOS member
  • If you borrow an item from a library, you must return it to the same library you checked the item out from. Do not return books from other libraries to The King's University. The King's University will not be able to check these items in and you might end up with fines and possibly be charged for a lost book.
  • Electronic items are limited to on-campus use only. Each time you visit a NEOS library, you will have to request a password to access items like eBooks or electronic journals. The access is limited to while you are at the library. 
  • Concordia University of Edmonton
  • The King's University
  • MacEwan University
  • Newman Theological College
  • Norquest College
  • University of Alberta
  • Vanguard College

Outside of Edmonton NEOS libraries

If you find an book at a NEOS library that is located outside of Edmonton, click on Interlibrary loan and place a request.  Library staff will request the book from the library. The book will be sent to King's via Canada Post, and when it arrives, you will be able to borrow it. It will have a book band with information on it, that needs to be left on the book, and returned with the book. You may or may not be able to renew the book. That information will be included on the book band. The book will need to be returned to King's library. 

Electronic resources held by NEOS libraries will appear in search results that are filtered to include NEOS in and outside of Edmonton. This includes ebooks, and articles. Unfortunately, a library's electronic resources are licensed only for the use of the library's own users. Place an interlibrary request for a copy of an article or one chapter of an ebook (copyright restrictions are in effect). Library staff will request a copy from the owning library.

If an electronic resources is held by a NEOS library in Edmonton, you can go to that library and request a password to use the item on that campus, while in the library.