Patrons can choose to search for materials in the local catalog first. If too few or no matches are found or the needed items are checked out, they can pass through the local catalog to search the union catalog by entering one keystroke. The search is repeated in Orbis without the need for re-keying the data. Patrons can also choose to go directly to Orbis and search for materials in the combined database. Although the circulation module is not yet available in Orbis, the status of all items held by member libraries is displayed in conjunction with the bibliographic record.
Patrons can use existing interlibrary loan services to retrieve the items displayed.
Orbis is governed by the Orbis Council which consists of the library directors of the participating institutions. The goals of the Orbis project are to support instruction and research by making it easier to search library holdings at member libraries and, importantly, to support resource sharing. As Orbis grows, it will become Oregon's equivalent of a virtual research library, easily accessible, comprehensive, and tied to a responsive document delivery program. It will also promote cooperative collection development activities and serve as a vehicle for delivering more than just bibliographic records. He expects it to become a national model that will be emulated in other states and regions.