NMC Library

Search Our Collections

News & Announcements

IMLS Funding News

MeLCat and the Michigan eLibrary are primarily funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Funding for the IMLS is in danger of being cut from the federal budget after September 2025.

If you would like to make your position on this issue known, here are links to look up your elected representatives and their contact information:

• Michigan House of Representatives
• Michigan Senate
• Michigan's Congressional Representation

In 2024, over one million books were loaned through MeLCat, providing patrons access to a wide range of materials not available at their local library. At NMC, this means:

• Students can fully explore any chosen topic by accessing rare, out-of-print and specialized resources from major university libraries
• Faculty can access advanced titles for developing curriculum
• Patrons can explore unique interests not represented in local collections
• Readers can continue reading a series we don’t have room to house on our shelves
• Staff can acquire multiple copies of professional development books for reading groups
• We can support students pursuing advanced degrees remotely with access to university collections
• We can easily and efficiently borrow and lend to neighboring libraries, like Traverse Area District Library

MeL also provides electronic database access to all Michigan residents, including:

• Academic database access for future NMC students at Michigan high schools (without this resource, many students would not gain experience with academic research databases before college)
• EBSCO ebooks, which offer expert, accessible coverage of a wide range of topics across academic subject areas
• The Learning Express Library, providing valuable resources for career readiness and test prep
• Resources for applied topics like small engine repair and automobile maintenance

What impact has MeLCat had on your life and learning? Share your MeLCat story here.

---

NMC Library is a Federal Depository Library.
Learn more about the Federal Depository Library Program.