Library Offers Expanded Services

By Gabrielle Sykes-Casavant, The University of Arizona Libraries January 30, 2009

Library users at the UA now have the option to conduct a global search of bibliographic information.

The University of Arizona Libraries is now offering its users a broader range of access to research material thorugh the world's largest network of library-based content and services.

The UA Libraries is offering the new search tool, called WorldCat Local, to improve access to its own and other collections around the world.

The advanced search engine allows access to a global database of bibliographic information, searching collections located in thousands of libraries around the world.

The global library collection is the first in a series of changes focused on improving access to the information resources available through the UA Libraries.

WorldCat Local replaces the UA library's curent Central Search box. However, patrons may continue using Central Search and can also continue using the library's online catalog as an alternative for finding materials.

WorldCat Local patrons can search all library materials, including physical and electronic books and journals, digital media, the full text of open-access journal articles, special collections and digital objects.

Searchers can now search Web-based article databases, browse by type of material and refine searches or limit the amount of information returned.

The results provided by the WorldCat Local search box will be primarily held by the UA.

Materials held by other libraries around the globe, whether offered in English or another language, are also available in the search results. Users can often request these materials through the UALibraries' Interlibrary Loan service.