About MaineCat

What is the MaineCat Statewide Catalog?
How does one search MaineCat?
Who can borrow under MaineCat?
How can I get additional information?
Which libraries participate in which system?

What is the MaineCat Statewide Catalog?

MaineCat Statewide Catalog combines and links more than 100 library collections contained in 10 large online library systems. A single search scans more than 3,400,000 unique titles and nearly 7.6 million items. The system is designed to grow to serve 300 or more library collections.

A built-in requesting and transaction management system allows patrons of libraries using a qualifying online system to make online interlibrary loan requests. Llibrary staff can make requests on behalf of their users, as well.

Growth is ongoing, with new libraries being added to Minerva consortium, a consortial automated library system supported financially by participants, and the holdings-only SOLAR system, which any Maine library can join at no charge.

How does one search MaineCat?

Anyone with an Internet link can search one of the constituent library catalogs, then, if the search is unsuccessful click the Search MaineCat button to move the search up to the MaineCat, a statewide catalog. Or, one may connect directly to MaineCat - Statewide Catalog .

You can search by author, title, keyword, subject heading and many other access points. The database is constantly and automatically updated to show new additions to the linked collections, and the current circulation status of each item.

Further information can be found on the Search Tips page. Most library users will find that starting one's local catalog will result in most quickly identifying and gaining access to the information one seeks.

Who can borrow through MaineCat?

Rapid, self-service borrowing is available to authorized users of any of the participating and active libraries, with the one exception of those associated with a Maine InfoNet SOLAR library, who will have to rely on library staff for placement of requests.

Additional Information

For additional information contact your local library. Additional information about MaineCat Catalog is available from the Contact Us page.

Which libraries participate in which system?

Systems and libraries served:

URSUS

URSUS is a shared catalog of University of Maine System campuses, Bangor Public Library, Maine State Library, Maine State Law and Legislative Reference Library and Maine State Archives.