About MnLINK
MnLINK's Mission
We support and develop a technology infrastructure and collaboration to facilitate equitable
and shared access to library and information resources for all people of Minnesota.
Two Major Components
MnLINK is a statewide virtual library that electronically links major Minnesota libraries. It
is currently made up of two major components: the MnLINK Gateway and the Integrated Library
System (ILS).
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MnLINK Gateway
Through the MnLINK Gateway libraries, you have access to electronic resources including online
catalogs from over 20 Minnesota library systems and the Electronic Library for Minnesota (ELM).
ELM includes a wide variety of subscription databases made available through collective,
statewide contracts.
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Integrated Library System (ILS)
This shared library automation system (software and hardware) for the University of Minnesota,
the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnPALS) and the Minnesota State Agencies
(MnPALS) allows for equal access to library resources across the state.
Other participating libraries include private colleges, public universities, K-12 school
libraries, and special libraries. Ex Libris-USA, Inc. holds the contract for delivery of the
ALEPH library automation system.
As of 2005, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus, along with coordinate campuses in
Duluth, Morris and Crookston, were all transitioned to the Ex Libris Aleph software. Through
MnPALS, several of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities library have also successfully
moved to the system and others are scheduled to migrate in the near future.
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Funding
The MnLINK project is funded by a 1997 appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature.
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Search the MnLINK Gateway
Use the MnLINK Gateway to:
- Search multiple libraries and databases at once.
- Request materials.
- Search the Electronic Library for Minnesota (ELM) to view and download articles about numerous topics.