J. Murrey Atkins Library provides resources for students, both inside the building and anywhere through the online catalog. Photo by Chris Crews.

J. Murrey Atkins Library recently made changes to the online catalog that will allow students, faculty and staff to more effectively use the library resources from computers, whether at the library, home, work or in class.

Now using the WorldCat Local online search service, those using the library’s webpage will be able to search for books and resources not just available on the shelves at Atkins Library, but libraries worldwide. The new system also allows for more effective sorting of search results given to the catalog user, according to Sharon Reichard, director of Communication and Public Relations for J. Murrey Atkins Library.

Reichard describes the new system as “a simpler, more user-friendly search interface,” she said. “The search box on the front of the library website is a bit different, reflecting a broader search capability. Results from the new ‘Everything’ search box will including holdings from libraries worldwide, although the results from Atkins Library will be displayed first.”

WorldCat will also allow interlibrary loan, the ability to have libraries borrow from one another, to be included in the catalog system. Users will also be able to create public profiles on WorldCat and save lists of materials that the user would like to remember.

Atkins Library worked towards this upgrade for 18 months, when research regarding companies to work with began. The new catalog system was unveiled earlier this month.