OWL alert brings you news of Worldcat.
From the website:
WorldCat is the largest library network in the world. WorldCat libraries are dedicated to providing access to their free resources on the Web, where most people start their search for information.
How does WorldCat work?
At the heart of WorldCat is a database of information about the things libraries own that is constantly updated by information professionals. Whether you’re searching for something yourself or a librarian is working on your behalf, WorldCat makes it easier to find and obtain reliable, validated information.
What will I find?
WorldCat’s coverage is both deep and wide. You can search for popular books, music CDs and videos—all of the physical items you’re used to getting from libraries. You can also link to many new kinds of digital content, such as downloadable audiobooks you can listen to on many portable MP3 players. You may additionally find authoritative research materials, such as documents and photos of local or historic significance; abstracts and full-text articles; and digital versions of rare items that aren’t available to the public. Because WorldCat libraries serve diverse communities in dozens of countries, resources are available in many languages.
Can I check something out?
This Web site lets you find an item of interest and then locate a library near you that owns it. WorldCat search results usually link you directly to the item record on the library’s Web site, and often point to the library’s other online services, including “Ask a Librarian.” The library’s Web site may allow you to join a waiting list, reserve an item, check it out and even have it shipped or delivered. These services will vary from one library to another, and a login associated with an active library membership is commonly required to use them.
Can I get into electronic databases?
Some WorldCat libraries make their specialized reference databases available on their Web sites, but only to library members. Your search on WorldCat.org may produce results for articles and other resources in these databases. These links will often take you directly to the electronic resource, although it’s likely you will be asked to log in with a valid library membership to access them fully.
Can I ask for help from a librarian?
Absolutely. WorldCat results often include a direct link to the “Ask a Librarian” help feature of a library’s Web site.
Can I add information to WorldCat?
Yes! On the WorldCat page for a particular item, you can enter a review under the “Reviews” tab, and contribute factual notes or a book’s table of contents under the “Details” tab.
Can I search WorldCat at my local library?
Many libraries let you search WorldCat from their own Web sites or from inside the library using the FirstSearch reference service. Although the basic identifying information you’ll find on this Web site can fulfill most needs, WorldCat at your library includes extra features such as advanced search and “similar items” capabilities, as well as published reviews and excerpts to help you better evaluate an item.
