Improved search tool makes 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, offers patrons of the Sheridan Libraries, Welch Medical Library, Arthur Friedheim Library, SAIS Bologna Library, and APL Library as of 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, and research.

My colleagues and I are excited to move into a new era with this next-generation library catalog and discovery tool. This was a complex project that touched nearly all aspects of library operations across six campuses. Its success is a testament to the JH Libraries’ commitment to collaboration in support of the vision of One University.
Elisabeth Long
Sheridan Dean of University Libraries, Archives, and Museums and chair of the University Library Directors Council

Features

  • 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 have launched 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.

Library staff will continue to enhance and improve Catalyst functionality and resolve problems as they arise.

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can we expect any problems with this new system?

    The launch of a new library system is never perfect.

    Initially, some e-journals and online resources will not appear in search results. In other cases, some links to electronic resources may not work correctly.

    In some cases you may also see duplicate records for the same resource. This is expected and de-duplication work will occur over the coming months.

    There may also be slight delays in user requests for books that need to move from one library location to another.

  • I use the “bookmark” feature in Catalyst. Will those bookmarks appear in the new version?

    Unfortunately, we could not bring existing bookmarks into the new version of Catalyst. There is, however, a similar feature called Favorites. After signing in to Catalyst (upper right on the navigation bar), look for the blue push pin icon on any record.

  • How can I report a problem or provide feedback?

    JH Libraries staff will be engaged in making ongoing improvements to Catalyst following its launch on July 12, 2023. If you need to report a technical issue or would like to send us feedback, please tell us what’s happening using this form.

  • What does it mean when I see Offsite Storage as a location or library?

    A large part of our collection is stored in high density shelving in a library storage center off campus. These items are easily available to you by submitting a request in Catalyst, and they will be available in 1-3 days.