Massachusetts libraries have now moved from the Statewide Virtual Catalog to ComCat.
ComCat provides all the same convenience and features as the old Statewide Virtual Catalog but with a much more modern and easy-to-use interface, including book jacket images and improved search options. Users can easily select their preferred format for an item when multiple choices are available. Hardcover, paperback, large print, audiobooks, and DVDs will appear together in search results.
The public library in the town where you reside can provide you with a library card. If you are a WSU student living either in a dorm or in a nearby town, you are eligible for a public library card.
Each library has its own procedures for giving out library cards. Most libraries require that you provide some form of identification to obtain a card. If you already have a library card form a library belonging to an automated resource sharing network (i.e., CLAMS, MetroBoston, Minuteman, NOBLE, MVLC, C/WMARS, OCLN, or SAILS), your card will accepted at other libraries within that network. You may be able to register at other networks using your local card.
The C/W MARS Network is the library network for the Worcester Public Library and public libraries in central and western Massachusetts. If you do not already have a library card from one of the C/W MARS libraries, it is worthwhile to go to your library to get one and to set up an online account.
Once you have an online account you will be able to
There are several public library networks in Massachusetts. You can search each network individually or you can use the Commonwealth Catalog (ComCat) to search almost all networks in a single search. Using your online public library account, you can request an interlibrary loan from any of the public library networks in Massachusetts to be delivered to the public library of your choice.
If you prefer to go directly to any of the public libraries in Massachusetts to borrow a book, remember to have your local public library card with you.
If you work, live, or study in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are eligible for a Boston Public Library (BPL) eCard.
An eCard gives you immediate access to the following from your own computer:
For more information:
https://guides.masslibsystem.org/BPL