UF4U: CardCat, Part Two

I missed last week's post due to attending ALA Annual. Now, let's return to our regularly scheduled blogging.

Several weeks ago, I wrote about an easily missed feature of CardCat. Now, another change has come around the bend: user logins!

When you access CardCat from the links on the library homepage, you'll automatically be taken to a screen that asks you to enter your BSU username and password. If you'd just like to do a quick search of the catalog, you can do that without logging in by clicking the link close to the middle of the page, "Use CardCat without logging in." Check out the screenshot for a more detailed look.

So, why log in? Just like with everything else these days, customization provides flexibility that people enjoy. By giving you access to a CardCat "account, " there are many things that can be offered that couldn't have been before, like online renewals.

If you have something checked out, but can't make it in to the library, log in and extend your borrowing time. (Note that some items can't be renewed, or have limits to the number of times they can be renewed.)

There is a list of available features right there for you on the login screen. Poke around and see if you find something you like. CardCat login is just one more example of why you don't have to be in the library to use it.

UF4U: CardCat

You know how when you go to the library and are in the stacks looking for a particular book, and while you're searching the shelves, you stumble across an equally interesting book you'd like to check out? You'll be glad to know that even if you can't physically visit Bracken Library, you can still browse the shelves! This week, I'm highlighting another Useful Feature for You in CardCat, Ball State's online library catalog.

CardCat has a great feature where you can search items on the shelf near the one you're displaying on your screen. Just look for the Nearby items on shelf link on the left-hand side of the screen. See the screenshot for a clearer view.

So, when might you want to use this feature? Well, say you're interested in a book on a particular topic like "nursing management." You enter the search in CardCat and find a book you'd like to get via interlibrary loan. If you click on the Nearby items on shelf link, CardCat will show you a list of other items dealing with similar subjects which may relate to your original search. It does involve a little bit of good fortune to find useful items this way, but it can help you see what the library has on a broad subject, at the very least.

This is another great example as to why you don't have to be in the library to use it!