New Library Catalog Coming Fall 2026

Big Changes are Coming to our Library Catalog! 

In the Fall of 2026, Branch District Library will offer a new catalog experience for our library users. The new catalog is designed to make it easier to search, browse, and discover everything the library has to offer. This new catalog will take effect on November 23, but patrons are encouraged to test drive it at https://discovery.branchdistrictlibrary.org/ while the current catalog remains available. 

The new catalog gives patrons a more modern, user-friendly way to find books, movies, audiobooks, eBooks, digital resources, and more. It brings more of the library together in one search and offers helpful tools to manage your account, place holds, save titles, and discover something new. 

New Features You'll Notice

• Digital items from the Woodlands Library Libby Collection and Hoopla will be searchable in the catalog. You can check out and place holds on the digital items directly from the catalog. 
• Grouped title results. This means all the formats the library owns -  book, large print, VOX, audiobook, ebook, eaudio- are displayed together under a common title. 
• Search for titles, authors, or topics and then narrow your results by many filters such as format, audience, and location. 
• Personalized optional features such as lists, saved searches, ratings, recommendations, and reading history.
• Saved searching. 

What Should I Do First?

When the new catalog is available, the first thing to do is sign in to your account. Make sure you have your library card number and PIN/Password. Once signed in, take a few minutes to review your account information, notification preferences, holds, checkouts, and any optional features you would like to use.

What Will Stay The Same?

• Your library card will still work, and you do not need to create a new account.
• You will still be able to place holds, renew eligible items, and view your checkouts.
• Items currently checked out, or on hold will automatically be transferred. 
• Your Libby and Hoopla accounts for downloadable titles will remain the same. 
• Library staff will still be available to help you use the catalog.

New Catalog FAQ

Why is the library changing the catalog?

We are looking to provide a more modern, user-friendly catalog experience. The new catalog will make it easier to search, browse, manage your account, and discover library materials in multiple formats.

Will my library card number change?

No. Your current BDL library card will still work.

Will I need a new library account?

You do not need to register for a new library account. Your existing library account will continue to be used in the new catalog. 

How do I log in?

Go to the new catalog and select Sign In. Enter your library card number and your PIN/Password.

What if I forgot my PIN or password?

You can reset your PIN/password online if your library account has a current email address on file. If you cannot reset it online, library staff can help. Visit or call the library for assistance.

Will my holds appear in the new catalog?

Current holds will continue to appear in your account.

Will my checked-out items transfer?

Items currently checked out to your account will continue to appear in your account.

Will I still be able to renew items?

You will still be able to renew eligible items from your account.

Will my reading history transfer?

If you previously enabled reading history in our catalog,  your history will be imported into the new catalog once you turn it on. Reading history is optional. You may start or stop recording your reading history, and you may delete titles from your history.

What are lists?

Lists let you save titles in the catalog. You might create a “Want to Read” list, a list for a book club, a list for your child, or a list of titles to remember for later. Any list that is marked public will be available for everyone. 

Can I save searches?

Patrons can save searches, which can be helpful if you want to keep track of favorite authors, subjects, series, or new items.

Can I use the new catalog on my phone? 

The new catalog is designed to work on computers, tablets, and mobile devices. Menu location will vary depending on screen size. 

Can staff help me?

YES! Library staff will be happy to help patrons learn the new catalog, sign in, place holds, manage accounts, and explore new features.