[Searching for Information: Books]

This Module will discuss:

  • Part 1: Using the WU Libraries Catalog to locate books.
  • Part 2: Getting books that the WU libraries do not own.

Module 2. Part 1: Using the WU Libraries Catalog

To find what books the library owns on your topic, conduct a subject or keyword search in WU Libraries' catalog. The keywords you have already identified will help you select appropriate Library of Congress Subject Headings and keywords with which to search. To access the catalog, go to an InfoStation or the WebStation and select the WU Libraries Catalog.

This is how the first screen of the catalog looks. Notice that you can do an author search, title search, and a combined (author/title) search in addition to keyword (word) and subject.

Remember also, that the catalog contains records for every book, journal title, video and CD ROM that is owned by the libraries.

Also notice that you can search for Reserves, view your patron record, or search the Journal Title List
from this page.

Subject Search:

A subject search is usually more accurate when specific subject terms from the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) are used. (The LCSH are located behind the reference desk.) Although the catalog will link you to the correct subject heading if the one you use is out of date, it is still a good idea to consult LCSH before attempting your search. Not only will it save you time, but you might discover other terms that you hadn't previously considered.

Keyword Search:

A keyword search is more inclusive, since it uses any combination of words that might appear in the title, subject, or note field of the record. This allows you to locate items that might be a little more relevant than their subject headings imply. On the other hand, you may also get records that have nothing to do with your topic.

Remember:

When searching for books on a specific topic, you may sometimes have to look for more general materials. For instance, the library may not own books or videos just on the effects of hunting on wildlife migration patterns, but we do own books on wildlife management.

Finding Materials in Hatfield Library:

Once you identify records in the libraries' catalog, you must then go find the book. The catalog gives all the information needed to locate the material:

Due to confidentiality issues, library staff will not divulge who has an item checked out. You can, however, recall a book that is checked out. Inquire at the Circulation Desk for more information.

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For information about this page, contact: Linda Maddux, lmaddux@willamette.edu
Page last updated: 8/15/01