Search the Library Catalogue
What is the Library Catalogue
A library catalogue is a detailed inventory or database containing information about all the resources a library holds. Sometimes called the OPAC, the Library Catalogue is the master source for all information contained in the library, both physical and electronic sources.
The library catalogue is the starting point for any search for university students. Each item in the library has a unique entry in the catalogue, providing crucial details like the title, author, publication date, and a brief description.
Similar to the search bar on the internet the Library Catalogue is focussed on the collection of books, journals, DVDs, and other materials within the library collection.
To find an item in the Library Catalogue you need to enter the details of the book, article, or resource you're seeking, and the catalogue will pinpoint the physical or electronic location of that resource.
How to use the Library Catalogue
If you’re looking for a reference for an assignment, doing pre-reading or independent study the Library Catalogue simplifies the task of searching the vast collection of the library.
Outlined here are simple steps that can help you start your investigation and make the most of the library catalogue:
Step 1 - Define your Search Subject
determine what information you need from the library.
start with a single topic and create a broad search strategy to identify common keywords and themes in the subject area.
Step 2 – Create a List of Keywords and Search Terms
clarify your objectives and identify any related subtopics.
brainstorm related keywords and phrases, draw on your lecture notes and recommended reading.
Step 3 - Refine your Search Results
start with a broad search and refine based on your search results.
filter and refine your search results by date range, geography, subject as you need to.
use Boolean Operators and Advanced Search Operators to adjust your search strategy.
Step 4 – Locate Resources in the Library
For physical resources, there will be a shelf location for your resource.
For digital resources, there will be instructions in the catalogue record to access the resource.
When to use the Library Catalogue
The library catalogue is your companion throughout your academic journey. Whether you're delving into assignments, exploring intriguing questions, or preparing for lectures, knowing when to use the catalogue ensures you can harness its full potential.
Here some of the times you will use the Library Catalogue:
Assignment Research: when starting a new assignment explore the catalogue for resources that align with your assignment’s theme or subject.
Research Questions: to the catalogue to answers that emerge during lectures, discussions, or when you're diving into course readings.
Recommended Readings: when you get a list of essential texts, use the catalogue to check for their availability, explore related materials, and ensure you have access to the key resources.
Pre-Lecture Preparation: before lectures or seminars familiarize yourself with the core readings and related materials to enhance your understanding.
Research Strategy: to develop a robust research strategy, use the catalogue to help define the focus of your investigations, identify relevant keywords, and test your search terms.
Benefits of using the Library Catalogue
The Library Catalogue is a directory which allows you to access the information held in the library collection.
Here are a few of the benefits you can gain from using the library catalogue:
Locate Information: a simple search query allows you to identify the information you need.
Access to Recommended Readings: access these essential texts recommended by your lecturer and course leader.
Explore Journals: access to journals and articles related to your subject area.
Accurate References: refer to the full bibliographic detail of a source to create references for your assignment.
Drawbacks of using the Library Catalogue
While the library catalogue is a valuable resource, there can be challenges which can include:
Potential Narrowing Research Scope: inadvertently narrow the research scope and overlook search avenues that could provide a different perspective to your research question.
Underutilization of Physical Resources: the digital landscape is vast, however not all useful resources are digitised. Consider using the physical sources available which may provide otherwise inaccessible information.
Overemphasis on Standard Search Queries: an overemphasis on standard search queries may limit your ability to discover materials that fall slightly outside conventional keywords.
Summary
Research is a key part of the university experience, and the Library Catalogue will be your starting point for much of your research process. It is home to all the bibliographic records for every single item your university library has access to and those it can borrow from other libraries.
Research skills are like all other skills, they take time, practice and coaching from more experienced people. Over the course of your university time, you will build and refine your search skills as you become more experienced using the core databases and more familiar with the publications and key authors in your field.
Understanding how to access previous research is vital to success and can be learned quickly and efficiently with some dedication to the process. Taking time to learn about the library catalogue system is an excellent place to start.
Search Strategy Templates
We have A4 and US Letter Search Strategy templates for you to use to document your research activities. Available in our store to purchase. Use the Add To Cart buttons below to find out more.
