Searching

Searching is a structured way of finding information. If you know the author, title or other specific information about an item you are looking for, searching our catalogue or information databases is an efficient way to find it.

The Library catalogue is similar to a web search engine in some respects but there are some major differences you need to be aware of. To get the best results from your searches, you need to understand how to use the catalogue. The Library also runs learning programs on how to use information databases.

Formulating a search

When you look for information, it helps if you understand your subject and think carefully about the main concepts and the different keywords which describe your subject. Once you have decided on your keywords or phrases, you can combine them to execute a search.  

If you have registered as a user, you can submit a request for an item to be retrieved from storage if the item is not available on the shelves in the reading rooms.

Searching beyond the Library

If, after searching our catalogues, you ascertain that an item you require is not held by the State Library, you can search other libraries’ catalogues. The Library may be able to obtain copies of items from other libraries for you via an interlibrary loan.