New Software Chosen to Support LINKcat Changes this Spring for South Central Library Users
MADISON, WI -- Library users from across the South Central Library System can look forward to new features in the online catalog LINKcat this spring. The seven-county library consortium recently selected SirsiDynix Symphony as their new integrated library system (ILS) after a year-long evaluation process.
An ILS is the software tool that library staff use to manage the behind-the-scenes functions that allow for the quick and easy sharing of materials between library locations within the system. Patrons interact with the public-facing aspect of the ILS through LINKcat to manage their library accounts, place holds on materials, renew items, and more.
Symphony was chosen as the new ILS thanks to the diligent work of library members across the SCLS system to assess several new ILS options throughout 2025. After the evaluation process, Symphony was selected due to its robust reporting abilities, industry-leading security certifications, improved features for library patrons and outstanding customer service.
"The look of LINKcat will be similar to what you see today,” said South Central Library Director Shannon Schultz. “However, Symphony will offer several improvements for patrons. We're looking forward to unveiling additional features as we get closer to the 'Go Live' date in April.”
The transition to Symphony has already begun, with several workgroups in place at SCLS to help train library staff and prepare the public ahead of full implementation of the new ILS.
While the LINKcat interface will look familiar post-implementation, several upgrades will occur during the brief period (2-3 days) that LINKcat is unavailable prior to the launch in April.
Additional details about specific changes coming to LINKcat and the mobile app will be announced later this spring. You can follow along with progress on this project at the LINKcat Help website.
About the South Central Library System
The South Central Library System (SCLS) was established in 1975 with just Dane and Sauk county libraries, but has since grown to include public libraries in Adams, Columbia, Green, Portage, and Wood counties. This seven-county system utilizes a shared online catalog, LINKcat, to help combine and organize the collections of the 51 member libraries (nearly 3 million items). Learn more about SCLS.
About Madison Public Library
With more than 1.3 million annual visitors across nine library locations each year, Madison Public Library's tradition of promoting education, literacy and community involvement has enriched the City of Madison for 150 years. Visit the library online at www.madisonpubliclibrary.org and @madisonpubliclibrary on Facebookand Instagram.
