Read, Listen & Watch: Using the Library Catalog
OVERVIEW
On this page, you will learn how to search with an online catalog.
- First, read the text and study the picture of the library catalog and library record.
- Then, watch the videos to learn how to use the catalog.
READ & LISTEN
Read:
All libraries use a catalog system. It lists all of the books, DVDs, and other library materials that the library owns. The catalog has information about the library materials.
Most library catalogs are online. You use a computer to read them. Sometimes they are called the library online catalog or just the online catalog. They are a special kind of online database. The library's online catalog has a record or description for each item in the library's collection.
Below is a picture of a typical library record. This is a catalog record or description for a book about dogs. The library catalog record will include a call number. The call number tells you where to find the book on the shelf.
Image Links to an external site. by projectidea, CC BY 2.0 Links to an external site.
Most library online catalogs have an empty search box where you enter the keywords or key phrases that describe what you are searching for. Sometimes, there are ways to filter your results if you just want DVDs or newer materials. The online catalog will put a list of results that match your search on the computer screen.
Listen:
COLLEGE LIBRARY ONLINE CATALOG
Links to an external site.
Watch:
This is an example of a public library online catalog.
PUBLIC LIBRARY ONLINE CATALOG
Links to an external site.