Linking to Library Resources: Setting Catalog Alerts

This is a placeholder for information on how to set up and use alerts in the library catalog. This page is in development.

One of the most common questions the library receives is "how will I know when a book or DVD I ordered is available?"

The library orders thousands of items every year across the College, so it is not possible for us to personally notify everyone when their items have come in. There are several ways to keep track of this, however:

1. Search for the title in the online catalog. When the status has changed from “on order” to “in” the title has been added to the library’s collection:

2. Use your online catalog account (

   In the online catalog choose “My Account”

   Log in with the barcode on the front of your ID card and your password. If you have not logged in before you will need to click on "Don't know your password" and reset it.) 

   to setup saved searches for specific titles or subject areas of interest to you. When the title has been added to the collection, you will receive an email alert:

3. Request a hold when you submit your order request. When the title comes in, it will be placed on the holds shelf in circulation and you will get an email letting you know it’s available for pick-up. The holds will expire in 10 days.