What is Z39.50 and the SCIS API?

Z39.50 is an international protocol developed and used by libraries, allowing library management systems (LMS) to search and receive information from databases over a network. Z39.50 – also known as Z-cataloguing and rapid cataloguing –allows users to search and import library records from remote databases such as SCIS Data within their LMS. SCIS Data’s Z39.50 import provides a seamless, streamlined user experience and automates the importing of SCIS catalogue records and cover images into your LMS’s catalogue.

API, or Application Programming Interface, are rules and protocols facilitating communication, data exchange and shared functionality. An API acts as a secure, standardised intermediary between systems. The SCIS API allows users to search and import library records from the SCIS Data into and from within their LMS. Like Z39.50, the SCIS API provides a seamless, streamlined user experience and automates the importing of SCIS catalogue records and cover images into your LMS’s catalogue.