Online library catalog unveils new features

Searchers using the UW–Madison library catalog MadCat will notice several updates this month.

The new MadCat features an updated design to improve navigation and several improvements in search options. Many more links have been added from the MadCat record to the electronic versions of journals as well.

There are three search screens available:

Basic Search
Guided Search
Course Reserve

The Basic Search screen provides users with most of the search options. Choices for setting search limits — for example by language, by date or by format — can be quickly set from a drop-down menu prominently displayed. The screen also includes an expanded list of search hints.

• The Guided Search screen remains very similar to previous MadCat versions, except that it is better organized to make it easier to navigate.
• The Course Reserve page offers options to search by instructor, department, course, or section.
• In addition, MadCat users no longer need to capitalize the words “and,” “or,” and “not” when combining terms.

After using the improved search options, MadCat users will find that the results page has new options as well.

• Result lists include the location, call number and availability status of a requested item.
• Search results can be sorted by either author, title, or date, and it is possible to jump to any page of the result list.
• Selected items from multiple screens may be marked for later printing, downloading, or emailing.
• Search strategies can be edited, limited and resubmitted from the results screen.

MadCat users will also notice improved navigability in searching for library account information. By clicking on the “My Library Account” button (previously “Patron Info”) on the main page or any page in the MadCat site, patrons can quickly and easily obtain lists of items charged out, renewal options, recall/hold requests, and fines/fees owed. There is also the option to request an item through Interlibrary Loan if it is not listed in MadCat.