Library Services Platform Migration

In December 2023, Middlebury Libraries will move to a new library system called Alma Primo. This new system will provide an updated interface, replacing the current MIISCAT and LibrarySearch systems. Below, we’ve described the changes that you will experience, in order for you to know what to expect and how to contact us with questions and feedback.

Why are we doing this?

Research tools are constantly evolving and a modern library requires more than a print-centric organizational system. The Middlebury College and Institute Libraries are updating systems to improve our digital access to resources. Library tools—including MIISCAT and LibrarySearch—will be replaced with a single, cohesive search interface, connecting our users more efficiently with the resources they need. 

This change is also driven in part by Middlebury joining the Boston Library Consortium (BLC) and developing a shared catalog with the University of Vermont, Connecticut College, Wesleyan University, Trinity College, and hopefully, other libraries. Having a shared catalog establishes the groundwork for many other potential collaborations, such as enhanced interlibrary loan services and the shared purchasing and management of databases and e-resources.

Key Dates

  • Sept-Nov 2023 - Testing and interface changes finalized by the library. 
  • November 3, 2023 - Requests to add new materials to the collection must be in by Nov. 3rd. New materials orders will be held until Dec. 20th.
  • November 2023 - Users will be able to preview the interface, but it will have limited functionality.
  • Nov 30, 2023 - Deadline to download your reading history from MIISCAT (if previously enabled)
  • December 15, 2023 - Possibility of limited library services for several days, but we expect minimal impact on patrons.
  • December 20, 2023 and forward -  All interfaces for users are changed over, regular services resume.
  • Beyond - Test, gather feedback, and improve interface to better suit our users’ needs

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • MIISCAT (Sierra) - All the bibliographic information within MIISCAT will be brought over to the new system. You will be able to search library print materials using the new interface (Primo).
  • Current LibrarySearch - The current centralized search service is called LibrarySearch, the new centralized service (Primo) will take its place. We will continue to call this centralized search “LibrarySearch,” but the interface will look different.
  • Any account history stored in MIISCAT will be lost, but you can export it for your own personal archive if you’ve previously opted in to storing your reading history.
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  • The new centralized search service (Primo) will look different, but we will continue to call this centralized search “LibrarySearch”
  • Journal list interface will change to be within Primo
  • Main library homepage search box will visually change and will take you to the new search interface when used
  • The Print Reserves interface will change
  • Go Links for MIISCAT and LibrarySearch will lead you to the new Primo interface. If you find go links or old library links that do not work, please contact us
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  • WorldCat - Middlebury records will still be shared to WorldCat and still be searchable there
  • Interlibrary Loan (ILLiad) services will still be available to request resources not at Middlebury
  • Various subscription databases (Scopus, ProQuest, JSTOR, etc.) are not going away, you will still be able to search and find information within them. The indexes and other contents inside these databases (journal articles, e-books, etc.) can also be searched and accessed from the new interface
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  • There will be a pause on adding new materials to the collection, please have any requests for new materials in by Friday, November 3rd. After that we will not be able to process any new requests until after the December 20th switch. 
  • Check and update any permalinks you had to titles in MIISCAT and the old LibrarySearch. These links will not work and you will need to either create new links to the new system or remove them from your materials. 
  • Export your reading history from MIISCAT for independent archiving. This information will not be transferred into the new system.
  • Follow us for updates. Check Library News (hosted by the Middlebury College Library) and this webpage for updates. We will be creating a help guide with more details on the new system by December.

Provide Feedback

If you have questions about this process or the new interface please email us at library-migration@middlebury.edu