Madison Public Library requires manual account resets following system transition | The Locally Times
Patrons must use birth dates as temporary passwords to access the new LINKcat system launched on April 17.
Madison Public Library patrons must manually reset their account passwords following the South Central Library System’s transition to a new software platform. The library system migrated its online catalog, known as LINKcat, to the SirsiDynix Symphony software on April 17, 2026. To regain access, patrons must log in using their full library card number and their birth date in a month and day format (MMDD). The library recommends that users reset their passwords within their account settings immediately after this initial login to ensure continued access. ## Troubleshooting and Support The library reports that some users have experienced issues with hold notifications since the software switch. Patrons are encouraged to log in to their accounts to verify the status of existing holds before traveling to a branch. For those unable to log in, staff at local library locations are available to confirm hold statuses and assist with account recovery. ## System Background The South Central Library System, which serves 51 member libraries and manages nearly 3 million items, initiated this software update because the previous provider could no longer offer service updates. The new system, SirsiDynix Symphony, is currently used by more than 20,000 public libraries nationwide. The updated interface allows users to manage Overdrive and Libby digital checkouts directly from their LINKcat account and provides new search tabs for filtering library and digital materials.