Mark your calendars for the preview launch of the new and improved MeL, brought to you by the Library of Michigan. On Jan. 10, 2005, MeL will launch a preview version of three new MeL components:

• A new gateway interface.
• MeLCat, the new statewide catalog, with resource sharing for participating libraries.
• Federated searching of the MeL Databases, MeL Internet and MeLCat.

There will be a link from the MeL homepage, http://mel.org, to the preview version of MeL.

The preview phase will run from Jan. 10 through April 8. To ensure a smooth transition to the new MeL, the old version of MeL will continue to be live during the preview phase.

We encourage library staff to begin to use the new MeL as soon as possible. We welcome your comments on the new MeL prior to March 16. We are interested in gathering input from staff and patrons on the new design, functionality and usability, as well as what promotional materials libraries need, and any other input you wish to give us.

MeL support also will change, with the addition of Web-based forms for requesting help or reporting problems, troubleshooting tips and links to documentation.

During the preview phase, MeL staff will be available to do presentations at library regional meetings (e.g., library cooperatives, REMCs and other regional group meetings). Please contact Ruth Dukelow (dukelow@mlcnet.org) to schedule a presentation on the new MeL, including the gateway, searching and how to participate in MeLCat.

Updated 01/09/2006