What is CrossSearch?
CrossSearch is software that allows you to search several databases at the same time. Additional features such as email alerts, customized resource lists, search histories, and folders to store citations are also available.
What is MetaLib?
MetaLib is the vendor name for the software that we use for CrossSearch.
Can I use CrossSearch off campus?
Yes. Log in using your UTEID.
Do I need to log in to CrossSearch?
If you are on campus, you will be able to use CrossSearch as a guest without logging in. Guest access is more limited and you will not be able to use the extra functionality you gain from being logged in (like to save info to My Space). We recommend that you always log in to CrossSearch (using your UTEID) so that you will always have all the functionality during your session.
Why is CrossSearch so slow?
CrossSearch sends your query to all the resources you select to search; the software must then must wait for results to return, process the results and then rank them for display -- and this takes some time. Some users have experienced a slow response when attempting to retrieve higher numbered records from search results. CrossSearch does not download all search results immediately. Pauses in displaying records are usually the result of CrossSearch querying the original database for additional records. Slowness may be a problem with individual databases. Feel free to fill out the Report a Problem Form if you continue to experience problems.
Can I search everything from CrossSearch?
CrossSearch is configured to search resources that the University of Texas Libraries have on subscritpion. We also include many freely available resources. It is not just like Google. The results you find through CrossSearch are more likely to be of a high quality and you are more likely to have access to the full text.
Why can't I search a particular database within CrossSearch?
Not all databases can be configured to work with CrossSearch's search software. Sometimes all we can do is provide a link to the native search interface for the database. We anticipate that, as time moves on, more publishers and vendors will develop their products to work with cross-search engines such as CrossSearch.
Can I find appropriate databases by subject?
Yes, use the Custom Search option to find out the whole range of databases that are available to you by broad subject headings called Categories.
Why don't I see all the results from my QuickSearch?
Your search may have retrieved a large number of results, but CrossSearch will display the first 30 results from each resource in ranked display order. This is usually enough for most requirements, but if you wish to see further results just click on the Get More button at the end of the results list.
How do I search multiple databases at the same time?
Click on the Custom Search tab. Under Identify Database, select "Subjects." A list called Databases will open. The databases that can be searched together have checkboxes next to their names; select from the list by checking the boxes. Then enter a query in the search box above the list and click 
.
If you log in with your UT EID, you can create and save custom lists of your favorite databases so you don't have to select them from scratch every time. You can also select databases across multiple subcategories, which is not possible unless you log in.
Can I email or send results from CrossSearch?
Yes. From a search results display, select records using the 
icon. Then click the My Space tab. If you are logged in with your UT EID, under eShelf you'll see your selected records in your Basket folder. To rename this folder for saving, click the 
icon. To remove records from this folder, click the record's 
icon. To move records from your Basket in and out of your new folder, click on Advanced.
To save or email a set of records, click Selected on top of the results display. A box will pop up that allows you to save or send your selected records. Click Send and fill out the email form and click Send again, and the records will be emailed to you. Unless you use a citation manager software like EndNote, email is the recommended option.
If you're not logged in, your eShelf will be deleted at the end of your session. For more information, click on the ? help icon while you're on the eShelf screen.
Does CrossSearch work with EndNote or other citation managers?
Yes. See the email or send FAQ for details on selecting records to export.
To save a specific record to disk, click the Full View option for a single record, or click on the article title. You will see an additional set of icons that provide added functionality. Click on and then choose "Citation Manager" as the record format. To save multiple records, click on My Space tab, view your eShelf, mark the records you wish to save, click Selected, then choose Save. If EndNote is installed on your computer, it will automatically open. You will be prompted to choose a Reference Library (.enl file) to save the records in.
If EndNote is installed on your computer, it will automatically open. You will be prompted to choose a Reference Library (.enl file) to save the records in. For more information about using EndNote with library resources, see the EndNote FAQ.
What's the difference between CrossSearch and the Databases list? Why would I use one or the other?
It depends what you'd like to do.
Help! I got kicked off while using CrossSearch!
CrossSearch will timeout after 15 minutes of no activity. It's best to email, save or print long articles rather than to read them while in CrossSearch.
What is required for using CrossSearch?
The software behind CrossSearch is optimized for the latest generation of web browsers, and has been tested on:
I need help using CrossSearch.
Please email Ask a Librarian to request either reference or technical help in using CrossSearch. Please be sure to include your email address so we can respond to you.
I would like to comment on CrossSearch.
Please use the Comments Form to send an email to library staff. Please be sure to include your email address so we can respond to you.
Tell me more about CrossSearch.
CrossSearch is run from library portal software called MetaLib. The University of Texas Libraries of The University of Texas at Austin has licensed this software from Ex Libris (USA) Inc.
There's more information about MetaLib on their web site: http://www.exlibrisgroup.com/metalib.htm.
