MeLCat Resources
MeLCat is part of the Michigan eLibrary (http://mel.org), Michigan's virtual library developed by the Library of Michigan with participation by Michigan Libraries. MeL is designed to offer every library and resident of the state equitable and easy-to-use access to a core set of information resources. In addition to MeLCat, MeL includes:
MeL Databases - an array of subscription-only resources purchased by the Library of Michigan for exclusive use by Michigan residents, including millions of articles from thousands of magazines, newspapers and journals covering all subject areas and ages - business and legal, health, science and technology, information for K-12 students and educators; thousands of general-interest electronic books; and an amazing number and variety of practice tests for academic or career preparation. These databases, provided statewide to Michigan residents, give MeL users 24/7 access to valuable information that is not available via a regular internet search.
MeL Featured Resources & Gateways - a collection of focus areas shown to be of keen interest by MeL.org users that contain specific database resources and subject specialist evaluated Web sites focusing on Michigan's people, economy, education, environment, health and government and more, plus suggested MeLCat searches.
MeL Michigana - a growing selection of unique digitized resources including manuscripts, photographs, newspaper archives, other historical Michigan documents and Web sites pertinent to Michigan history.
Michigan Online Resources for Educators (MORE) - a growing collection of resources focused on subject areas of interest to Michigan's education professionals. These include curriculum content, lesson plans, assessment and more all aligned with curriculum standards grade level content expectations.
MeLCat Statewide Resource-Sharing System - InterLibrary Loan
MeLCat is a statewide catalog of books, CDs, DVDs and more. MeLCat makes it possible for City of Bridgman and Lake Charter Township residents to reach far beyond the walls of our Library to a growing world of remarkable information resources. MeLCat allows patrons to search for, locate and request materials from a comprehensive catalog that includes the holdings of libraries around the state. Items will be delivered to our Library, usually within a few business days. This service provides access to millions of items, including valuable local history materials.
Patrons must have a current library card, and be in good standing for at least 30 days before using MeLCat.
Patrons are responsible for:
- Keeping their contact information up to date.
-
Returning MeLCat items to the library which obtained the material for them on or before the due date.
-
Paying any late fees, damage or replacement costs.
How Do I Use MelCat?
To view a quick MeLCat Tutorial click here.
Verify that the Bridgman Library does not have the book you are looking for before making an Interlibrary Loan request.
To request an Interlibrary Loan, click logo to search MeLCat 
Quick MeLCat Search:
-
Indicate Keyword, Author, Title, ISBN, Series Title or ISBN
-
Search For: _________________click Find It!
The search, if successful, will bring up TITLES:
- Click on TITLE that seems to be what you are looking for.
- When you find the appropriate selection verify that the media is correct (Book, CD, DVD)
-
Click Get this for me
The next screen will indicate what was requested and ask:
- Which library card/account do you want to use?
- Select Bridgman Public Library from the dropdown menu
- Click submit above information
- Type in your first and last name
-
Please enter your library card number barcode from the back of library card (no spaces)
If your request has been successful the last screen will say:
- Your request for (Title and Author) was successful.
- Item requested from (Library that will lend book)
- Your request will be delivered to the circulation desk at Bridgman Public Library.
- You will be notified by phone/email when your request comes to the library.
- Patrons can check their requests or renew their items online at MyMel on Mel.org (1st page).