Indexes and Tables

A Horizon index—sometimes referred to as a search index or mq_index—is a tool that Horizon uses to manage the efficient storage and quick retrieval of information on your library’s database. Indexes are used in defining search options for staff searching. (In addition, Information Portal uses Horizon indexes for browse searching. For more information, see the Information Portal System Administrator’s Guide.) Search options are based on either an index or a column in a table. The index is part of Horizon’s internal indexing system and determines how searched information is processed and displayed. (For example, title alphabetical information is stored and organized in the bib table differently from the way this information appears in tag 245. Consequently, the title alphabetical search requires an index that processes and changes the character of the data stored in the bib table so that it appears alphabetically.)

Some indexes link to MARC maps, which determine the tags and subfields checked during a search. Other indexes link to a table column, which is likewise checked during a search. (For example, a title keyword search might check an index with a MARC map containing all title tags. A borrower name alphabetical search would check an index that references the name column in the borrower table.)

Some search options do not require an index to process and display searched data. Instead, these options are linked directly to a table and column because the information is stored in a way that can be displayed without any change or processing. Borrower barcodes, borrower second IDs, and PO numbers are examples of information that is stored exactly as it should appear in a search list.

You cannot create a search option without a corresponding index or table column. To determine whether to base a search option on an index or on a direct table column, use these general guidelines:

Table 3-1:

Type of Search

Examples

Mq Index w/MARC Map?

Index w/Table Column?

Direct Table Column

Searches on MARC records

Search for bib and authority information
Search for copy record information such as ISSN and UPC code
Search for PO information such as title keyword

 

 

X

 

 

Alphabetical, keyword, and call number searches

Call number search
Alphabetical search by borrower last name
Keyword search on borrower name

 

 

 

X

 

Exact match searches on table information

Item barcode search
Borrower barcode search
PO number search
Reserve instructor search

 

 

 

X

Table 3-2:

For more information on Horizon indexes, see Understanding Indexing in Horizon .

 


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