PASCAL Connects

PASCAL Connects

PASCAL Connects combines shared technology, resources, and services to create a comprehensive virtual academic library for South Carolina’s higher education students, faculty, and staff.

Since 2004, PASCAL has provided core electronic resources, access to print content via a statewide rapid delivery service, and systems support for members on an opt-in basis. Over time, PASCAL has expanded the resources and services available to members. Current programs include:

• Core electronic resources, including thousands of academic journals covering all disciplines
• Opt-in electronic resources with consortial pricing negotiated by PASCAL
• PASCAL Delivers, a rapid print delivery service, that provides access to over 12 million print volumes housed in academic libraries around the state
• E-book collections, providing over 300,000 titles
• South Carolina Affordable Learning (SCALE), a statewide initiative to reduce student costs through the use of quality low-cost and no-cost learning materials.
   

In 2020, PASCAL and fifty-five member libraries modernized the technology underpinning academic library services in the state with the successful migration to a shared library services platform. Participating libraries replaced a variety of older systems with the Alma and Primo VE platform from Ex Libris Group.  The shared platform provides an enhanced research experience for students and faculty, streamlines the management of print and digital collections, and supports resource sharing between libraries.

The PASCAL Connects shared system and services support cost effective, collaborative efforts among participating libraries, ensuring extensive, yet efficient collection of academic resources in times of increasing library costs and budget restraints. Funding for PASCAL Connects has been provided by the South Carolina General Assembly and PASCAL member institutions.