Massachusetts Virtual Catalog - Instructions
Search for and borrow materials from Massachusetts public and academic libraries.
If you can't find what you want in the FLO catalog, you may be able to request it using the Virtual Catalog, as long as you are a patron in good standing (i.e. have no outstanding fines, fees, or overdue materials). Click on the Virtual Catalog link, and follow the instructions below.
** Items that are available in the FLO catalog may
not be requested via the Virtual Catalog - please request these items through
the FLO catalog directly**
LOGIN
- Type in your library barcode (Wheelock patrons, remember that the number must be preceded by "111320").
- Select your library from the drop-down menu provided and click "Login to the Mass VC."
SEARCH/REQUEST
- Click Searching/Requesting.
- On the next screen, enter your search term(s) in the box provided. You can search by title, author, or ISBN for materials owned by participating public and academic libraries statewide (see list below). Click "Begin Searching."
- If the item you wish to borrow is available and you would like to request it, click the Request button.
COMPLETE CREATE REQUEST SCREEN
- Confirm your name and pickup location. You may also change the date by which you need the item delivered. If no e-mail address is listed, or if you wish to change the e-mail address listed, type this into the box provided, and click Submit Request (at the bottom of the screen).
- The system will generate a number which you can use to track your request (you can do this by clicking "Review your requests" from the Patron Main Menu).
Please allow at least one week for your request to be filled. You will be notified when the item arrives.
Please note that items borrowed via the Virtual Catalog may not be renewed. Also, be aware that patrons are responsible for items borrowed through the Virtual Catalog - replacement costs may be significant.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact a librarian - we are happy to assist you!
Current Virtual Catalog participants:
- CLAMS: Cape and Islands libraries
- C/W MARS: Central and Western Massachusetts libraries
- FLO: Fenway Libraries Online
- MBLN: Boston, Chelsea and Malden libraries
- Minuteman Library Network: MetroWest libraries
- NOBLE: Libraries north of Boston
- OCLN: South Shore libraries
- SAILS: Southeastern Massachusetts libraries
- University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Boston, Dartmouth and Lowell
The Virtual Catalog system is being funded with state funds through a series of grants from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
Need help?
IM a librarian! You may also make a research appointment, e-mail or call the Reference Librarian at 617-879-2222.
