Montana Shared Catalog

Introduction

The Montana Shared Catalog is a cooperative project involving over 100 libraries. Public, school, academic, medical, and special libraries have pooled their resources together to purchase a robust library automation system. Members also enjoy the benefits of shared expertise and the ability to provide great service to library customers. Currently the Montana Shared Catalog uses the SirsiDynix Corporation's Symphony© product. Take a test drive of the Montana Shared Catalog!

New libraries are normally added once a year. There are some things that you need to be aware of when joining the shared catalog, so it helps to chat with Ken Adams at the Montana State Library about the process. Ken can give you a price estimate and make you aware of the benefits and obligations that come with being a Montana Shared Catalog member. Application material and instructions for libraries applying to join in 2012 (MSC Phase 14 – FY2013) can be downloaded from the link to the right on this page. Applications must be completed and delivered to Ken Adams at the State Library no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2012. Final application approval by the State Library Commission will take place on April 11, 2012 during their meeting at the MLA Conference. Implementation schedules may be delayed if the MSC migrates to a new system later in the year. Final decision on whether the MSC will be migrating or not will be made in June, 2012.

Can I get start-up financing?

The State Library Commission has authorized the Montana State Library to set aside federal funds (LSTA) to help libraries cover the vendor startup costs associated with joining the Montana Shared Catalog. Individual libraries are expected to fund the annual MSC membership costs. If federal funding of LSTA grant amounts are less than anticipated, the number of libraries awarded grant funds to pay vendor startup costs could be limited.