SFX has been in use in CSU libraries since 2001 and offers context-sensitive linking between all components of a library's electronic and print collection, such as abstracts, full-text articles, library catalogs, indexing databases, journal citations, and so on. Context-sensitive linking provides end users with much easier access to information: metadata about one source links it to other related sources that the user can access simply by clicking the links. This means, for example, that with one click the user can retrieve the full text of an article found in a citation-only database.

The essential core of the SFX system is a database of linkable resources such as the online catalog, the indices to article citations, and Current Contents and the rules for access, such as data elements that must be passed, date thresholds, and categories of material. SFX communicates using the OpenURL protocol that enables metadata transfer between an information service and a service component. SFX also produces output files that are used by CSU libraries to generate A-Z lists of all available journals, magazines, newspapers, etc.

Through another feature of SFX, students and faculty can use the Citation Linker to key-in a citation found in a journal article or book to determine if a print or electronic copy of the article is available through their CSU library. If the item in question is not available, SFX will provide a link to the interlibrary loan system so that the article can be requested from another library. In addition, CSU libraries can choose to offer other services through an SFX menu, such as links to a live reference chat line, internet search engines, etc.

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