Find an item in your local library
Most public libraries have online catalogues. To find your local public library's website and computer catalogue, use the Australian Libraries Gateway (opens in a new window).
Once you're there, click on Find a Library and:
- type your local library name in the 'Name' box
- select your State or Territory from the 'Location' drop-down menu
- select Public in the 'Library type' drop-down menu
- click Search
You will be directed to the website and computer catalogue of the selected local public library. If you don't know the name of your local library you can use the map on the right side of the page to find it.
Does my local library have a copy of the book I want?
Different libraries have different catalogues and ways of searching.
The searches usually available are:
- 'Title search' - type in words from the title of your book. This will find all the books with those words in the title.
- 'Author search' - type in the author's name. This will find all books by that author.
- 'Author/title search' - type in exact details of author and title. This is a very efficient way to search.
Does my local library have books about my topic, author or text?
Use a 'Subject search'. This finds books about your author, text or topic.
TIP
Some library catalogues only allow you to search by keywords. Be aware that searching keywords may find:
Some library catalogues only allow you to search by keywords. Be aware that searching keywords may find:
- a specific text
- items about a specific text
- both the specific text and items about it.
Does my local library have the journal I want?
Do a 'Title search' using the title of the journal. Check to see if your library has the particular issue you need.
