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WorldCat Helps

A guide to searching WorldCat.org.

What is WorldCat.org?

WorldCat.org searches for books, DVDs, CDs, and more in libraries all across the U.S. and the world. Users may easily locate the copy of an item in a library near them which may allow you to use or checkout the item. You may also request a book or item via interlibrary loan using WorldCat.org.  In addition, users may create resource lists and sample citations.

This guide contains information on how to search WorldCat.org, request books through interlibrary loan, and create an account to create resource lists and citations.

Search

Search allows users to enter one or more search terms in the text box and limit searches to a specific item type.  Search performs a basic keyword search.

Enter your search term in the box and click Search Everything.

Advanced Search

Advanced Search allows users to combine up to three different search terms and select various limits.

Select a search type from the drop-down list. Entering search terms in more than one search box combines the terms using the Boolean operator AND.

Narrowing WorldCat Search: Enter a date range if desired. The drop-down boxes allow options like narrowing language to English, narrowing format or content or intended audience.