MeL, the Michigan eLibrary, has two components: MeLCat the statewide catalog, and the eResources available at MeL.org. An anywhere, anytime library for Michigan residents, this site provides information about the administration of MeL, with links to contact staff, promotional materials, and the latest news about MeL.
The MeLCat Statewide Catalog is a centralized union catalog and resource sharing service created to share materials among all types of libraries in Michigan, regardless of the local circulation system they use. MeLCat contains up-to-date holdings from all participating libraries. While the ability to search MeLCat is open to everyone, only eligible patrons from participating libraries may request materials to be delivered to their home libraries. MeLCat does not replace a local integrated library system. Information about policies, procedures, training and joining MeLCat can be found by visiting the Midwest Collaborative for Library Services webpage.
MeL invests in over 80 eResources for Pre-K through college students and adult learners of all types. Topics covered include early literacy, test prep, magazine and newspaper articles, encyclopedias, health resources, workforce skill building, family history/genealogy, and more. MeL's eResources are a one-stop shop for high quality, vetted information accessible via all types of libraries across the state.
For assistance with MeLCat staff training, procedures, RIDES questions, and other MeLCat support issues, please contact the Midwest Collaborative for Library Services: melcathelp@mcls.org
For support with MeL eResources including gathering library-specific statistics and access issues, please contact the Midwest Collaborative for Library Services: melerhelp@mcls.org
We've visited a lot of libraries and held listening sessions across the state. Your feedback shaped MeL.org's redesign and helped us create a site with resources and support for you. We have Downloadable Promotional Materials, videos, technical support for integrating MeL eResources onto your own website, access to the help desk, and much more.
We have a new focus and a redesigned MeL for educators. We provide seamless classroom use. Geoauthentication means no logging in, and instant access to MeL eResources. This section of MeL also includes professional development information, code for several product search boxes that you can put on your school library website, and more.
Find promotional materials you can use at your library including brochures, bookmarks, and posters. Free to order. Materials with the new MeL logo coming in now!
Don't miss our weekly communication about everything happening with MeL.org! Statistics, product developments, site improvements, insights into individual eResources and MeLCat functionality. It's all here.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
