Library catalogs are used for two purposes. First, if you know exactly what you are looking for, for example you know the exact title or an author's name. This works for book titles and journal titles. Second, you can use library catalogs to discover material that might be helpful to you by doing subject and keyword searching.

When you find something you want in the catalog, write down the following:

• Location - in which library the item is kept (or libraries, if we have multiple copies)
• Call Number - this number is essential for finding the item on the shelf
• Status - is it available for you to check out?