MADISON, WI--A new version of LINKcat will become available for South Central Library System users on Friday, April 17. 51 member libraries across seven counties are working to transition their integrated library systems (ILS) to a new software that will give library users more power when navigating search results and managing their personal accounts.

An ILS is the software tool that library staff use to manage the behind-the-scenes functions that allow for the quick and easy sharing of materials between library locations within the system. Patrons interact with the public-facing aspect of the ILS through LINKcat to manage their library accounts, place holds on materials, renew items, and more. Because LINKcat combines the library collections of all South Central Libraries, the system gives library users access to nearly 3 million items representing more than 800,000 different titles.

The transition to the new software will begin at 5pm on Sunday, April 12 and continue through Thursday, April 16, with both LINKcat and the LINKcat mobile app unavailableduring that time. All Madison Public Library locations will remain open and visitors can check out items in person with the assistance of staff. Please plan to bring your physical library card (the LINKcat app will be down and staff won't be able to use your photo ID). During this offline period, due dates on library items will be extended to ensure minimal impact for users.