The online library catalog includes descriptions of materials in all UIUC campus libraries including things we have online access to. However, not all of our online content (like streaming audio and video) is included in the catalog and it is best to also check those tools in addition to the catalog.

NOTE: What you won't find in the library catalog are individual journal articles--to find those you'll need to use one or more journal databases.

One of the most useful research skill is learning how to evaluate and read the records you get after you search in a catalog.

1) performers are often listed as authors

2) the topics tell you what an item is about or what it includes

3) the best places to find more information are the "More Details" tab and the "Table of Contents" tab

4) always check the location information to see where an item is, whether an item is available, and what its call number is

The More Details tab gives more information about the format of the item and the various performers.

The Table of Contents tab, when available, list piece names / composers, with each piece separated by -- (or ; if more than one piece by a composer).

When looking at a record for a piece of printed music, the topics will often also tell you what format the item is in, whether it's just a score, just parts, or a score and parts.