The Monona Public Library announced on April 9 that it will introduce a new version of its LINKcat online catalog beginning Friday, April 17. The upgrade aims to provide a smoother, more secure, and improved experience for library users.
LINKcat is the online catalog for the South Central Library System, connecting 51 local libraries and managing nearly three million items. The platform allows patrons to search for materials, place holds, renew books, and manage their accounts using both the website and mobile app.
To prepare for the transition, the current version of LINKcat will be unavailable from Sunday, April 12 through Thursday, April 16. During this period, users will not be able to search in LINKcat or its mobile app, place holds, register for new library cards, or pay fees. However, with a physical library card in hand during this time frame at Monona Public Library branches that remain open (except Tuesday), patrons can still check out materials in person and use computers as well as printing services. Due dates for checked-out items and existing holds will be extended so users are not penalized by the downtime.
Monona Library itself will close on Tuesday, April 14 for carpet cleaning but is scheduled to reopen for building access during the rest of that week. Once launched on Friday morning April 17th ,the updated LINKcat system promises several improvements including integrated management of Libby/Overdrive checkouts and holds within LINKcat itself; enhanced browsing features; increased account security; and better readability especially on smartphones or tablets.
For those seeking additional information about these changes or needing assistance with the transition process once live support resumes after launch day , further details are available at help.linkcat.info . Library staff members have expressed appreciation to patrons “for your patience and understanding while staff learns the new software” adding: “We look forward to being able to serve you even better!”
The update reflects ongoing efforts by local libraries like Monona’s branch to improve digital resources while maintaining access during necessary service interruptions.
