Jennifer Schmidt

HERE IS WHAT HAS BEEN HAPPENING

• MCFLS and MPL’s Cataloging team are setting up the beta CountyCat catalog.  We expect work to be done on this by April 1, 2024.


• Along with our shared CountyCat, MCFLS is creating a branded catalog instance for each member library. These pages will each have their own web address such as https://greenfield.countycat.mcfls.org.  If a member library chooses to use the local version of CountyCat, patrons will find it linked off of the library’s web page and/or on the library’s in-house computers.  The default, CountyCat catalog will continue to be found at https://countycat.mcfls.org.
  • Global settings will apply to all CountyCat versions. Patrons will see the same account display, the same search and holds functionality, the same facets and, of course, the same titles/records!
  • At its most basic, the branded catalog simply features the library logo next to the CountyCat logo.
  • MCFLS is setting up each branded catalog as the library prefers by April 2024.
  • Should a library want to apply more customization to its branded catalog, open a MCFLS Help Desk ticket to get set up with a proper Aspen account and training materials.


• Library of Things is changing.  MCFLS is reaching out to individual libraries to upload cover images for their Library of Things. The goal is to better showcase these items in the next CountyCat catalog. Instructions are on the Aspen Libguides.


• Browse categories.  One of the main features of the next catalog is called Browse Categories.  It is tied to the “home page” and organizes like titles together using cover images.  Patrons are then able to browse to locate titles of interest.  Read more about this on the Aspen Libguides page.  (You’ll find videos at the bottom of the page).  MCFLS is setting up PERMANENT browse categories in CountyCat that all libraries will use.  This will provide continuity to our catalog.  These include
  • 1. New York Times Bestsellers Lists
  • 2. Library of Things 3. New Adult Titles 4. New Kids Titles 5. New Teens Titles 6. On Order 


• During MCFLS committee meetings in February and March 2024, staff will be asked to provide input on public display options for the beta CountyCat as well as the above-mentioned browse categories as they pertain to adult, kids and teens.


• All staff need to take a two-hour, online PATRON EXPERIENCE training in April 2024.  This training will be offered multiple times throughout the month.  Although a recording of the session will be available, staff are highly encouraged to attend the session when its offered.  The training will cover how to use the patron account, search and place holds, how to create and share lists.   Please go to the MCFLS Aspen Libguides page to start reviewing training content posted there.