The default value for the if-exists keyword of the connect function.
The variable *connect-if-exists* is the default value for the if-exists keyword of the connect function. It can take the following values:
Instructs connect to make a new connection even if connections to the same database already exist.
Instructs connect to make a new connection but warn about existing connections.
Instructs connect to make a new connection but signal an error for existing connections.
Instructs connect to select an old connection if one exists (and warns) or make a new one.
Instructs connect to select an old connection if one exists or make a new one.
LispWorks User Guide and Reference Manual - 20 Sep 2017