Associate Librarian
Catalogs & Search Tools
- Use broad search terms to start. Most catalogs only search in titles, chapter titles, and sometimes book summaries rather than the full-text, so you want to give yourself the best chance of finding relevant works.
- Change up your search terms. Scholars from different fields may use different terminology or approach a topic from different directions, so don't hesitate to skim your search results and change up your keywords.
- Use built-in tools, like filtering by Subject, to narrow your search. Subjects are topical tags assigned to individual titles that can lead you to related works.
- Look for titles cited in other books or articles that you have read on the topic. Start by searching in IUCAT, and if you don't find it there, try WorldCat.
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IUCAT This link opens in a new windowIUCAT, the online catalog for all titles available through IU Libraries, is often the best place to start a search for books and ebooks, and also includes government documents, videos, and sound recordings.
- Use broad search terms to give IUCAT the best chance of finding relevant titles.
- Use the red Request This button to have print materials delivered to the most convenient library for pick-up.
- Use the filters like Subject and Publication Year on the left side of the page to narrow your search results.
- When you find one title that looks promising, use the hyperlinked Subject headings to locate additional titles.
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WorldCatExpand your search to include titles available at IU and a majority of library systems across the United States and abroad.
- If you find a title in a citation or bibliography and can't locate it in IUCAT, search WorldCat to locate and request the title.
- Unlike IUCAT, WorldCat can also locate specific articles and book chapters.
- Click View Indiana University-Bloomington Catalog to access titles that are available through IUCAT.
- Click the red Request through ILL button to submit a pre-filled form to receive the title from another institution.
- Use the hyperlinked Subjects to continue your search.
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HathiTrust Digital LibraryUse HathiTrust to find the full-text of out-of-copyright books and journals. Many of these titles are also discoverable in IUCAT, but you may find new or different sources due to the search functionality and features on this platform.
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Request through Interlibrary Loan (ILL)If you can't access the book or article that you need through IU, fill out this form to submit an ILL request to receive a digital or print copy from another institution. First-time users will need to register their account using the 14-digit code displayed on their CrimsonCard in the IU Mobile app.