Johns Hopkins Libraries to roll out a new version of Catalyst on July 12

Improved search tool will make discovering, organizing, and accessing library resources easier than ever. 

Search more, faster. That’s what the new version of Catalyst, the Johns Hopkins (JH) Libraries’ discovery search tool, will offer patrons of the Welch Medical Library, Sheridan Libraries, Arthur Friedheim Library, SAIS Bologna Library, and APL Library beginning July 12, 2023.

The improved online search, catalog, and account management system is oriented to modern web standards and technologies, and features a superior search interface for Hopkins students, faculty, and researchers to find essential information critical to their studies, teaching, research, and practice. 

“My colleagues across the JH Libraries and I are excited to launch a next-generation library catalog and discovery tool,” said Anne Seymour, Associate Dean and Director of the Welch Medical Library and member of the University Library Directors Council. “Our team at Welch is deeply engaged in this complex project that touched nearly all aspects of library operations across six campuses. The new version of Catalyst is a prime example of the great collaboration across the libraries and will lead to improved discovery of and access to information.

While many features will remain familiar, the new Catalyst will offer intuitive ways to explore and retrieve content. Features include:

• A single search box that will search most library resources, including books and eBooks, articles, journals, videos, and more
• Full-text article search
• Improved virtual browsing
• Improved journal title search
• Improved management of e-resources, including faster activation of new titles

The JH Libraries are rolling out a new Catalyst in response to the development of new technologies and the exponential growth of library resources and electronic publications since the search interface first launched in 2011. The library collection now boasts access to more than 2.6 million electronic books and 300,000 electronic journals.

Library staff will continue to enhance and improve Catalyst functionality after the new version launches on July 12 and will seek user experience feedback from the Hopkins community.

To stay apprised of developments, visit the Catalyst Updates page.