Accessing MeLCat Through the Troy Library Catalog

Accessing the Michigan eLibrary Catalog (MeLCat) - the system that allows you to request books from nearly every library across Michigan - can now be done directly through the Troy Library's Public Access Catalog (PAC). Library patrons can now place requests for MeLCat items, track their due dates, and renew them directly in our PAC as you would any Troy Library item.

MeLCat is not a traditional hold system, but a statewide request system. Instead of placing a hold on an item that is currently checked out, you can request an item currently available in any one the 375 participating Michigan libraries. Few titles are not immediately available. This system complements Troy's catalog and offers access to unusual and rare titles. Troy patrons can also request audio-visual materials.

A few things to keep in mind when doing a MeLCat search:

• Always check the Troy Library's PAC first to see if we own the item, and if it is available or has a short hold list. You will receive the item faster by placing the item on hold from Troy.
• If you cannot find what you are looking for, then choose MeLCat in the dropdown menu on the search screen. Remember to turn your search database back to Troy Public Library after you're done searching MeLCat.
• Use the Phrase search option when searching MeLCat.
• When using the Phrase searching option, use the Search by dropdown for either Title or Author to get the best results. Searching by other options, such as Subject, Genre, and Publisher will not produce the best results.

We are excited about this improvement to the library's service, and continue to look for ways to make searching more user-friendly. Your comments are welcome and your patience during the transition is appreciated!