Quick links:


- Refinements
- Section Navigation

Help with Searching

How do I search for a title or author?

Type keywords from the title or author name into the search box at the top of the screen.

Search box

You don't need to specify title, author, or subject - just go ahead and click "Search."



How do I do an "exact" search?

You don't need to be "exact" - the new website uses sophisticated algorithms to find the best match for your keywords. We find that the results for a specific author or title search are usually quite good. If you prefer "exact" searching and want to browse an alphabetical list of headings, you can still use the old catalogue.



How do I search by subject?

The simple way: just type keywords from your topic into the search box at the top of the screen.

Search box

The more advanced way: go to Advanced Search and choose Subject from the drop-down menu before entering your search. This type of search allows you to be more precise - for instance, searching for "jane austen" as a subject might help if you're trying to find books about Jane Austen rather than books by Jane Austen.

Advanced Search by Subject

To browse an alphabetical list of subject headings, use the old catalogue.



How do I search by ISBN?

Type the ISBN into the search box at the top of the screen.

Search box

How do I search by call number?

To search by call number, use the old catalogue.



How can I see all the materials of a certain type (e.g. all English adult DVDs)?

Use Advanced Search.

  1. Leave the search box blank.
  2. Choose the options you want from the menus below the search box.
  3. Click "Search."

How to do a blank search