Libraries have used card catalogs to archive and search for books since AD 800. Today, computer terminals have replaced card catalogs, and many libraries offer searchable sites for interlibrary loans and ordering books. However, access is limited to library members, and fines may apply for late or damaged returns.
Around AD 800, the first library catalog was developed for the House of Wisdom in what is now Iraq. Since that time, and especially with the ease of book publishing that came later, most libraries had to find ways to archive books and give people who wanted to check them out a way to search for them. For years, some form of card catalog system was used so that people could search, usually by author or title. Today, card catalogs are usually being replaced by computer terminals where people can search, and these searches may not be limited to what’s in a library; instead many can use an online card catalog to broaden access to locally unavailable material.
Different types of card catalogs may be available online and what is available may depend on the library involved. Many public libraries that serve communities have searchable sites that can be accessed from home, if people have a library card that is used as a code. Libraries that have multiple branches could allow people to search all branches at once, and the location of any book found could be noted in the catalog search results. Sometimes, if people are looking for a specific book, they have to search each online card catalog separately by branch.
Because research can sometimes be done from home, via a library’s website, there may be more features. Depending on the online card catalog, people may be able to order books, via interlibrary loan, if they are not available at a local library. The number of libraries that could participate in any one interlibrary loan varies widely. Some libraries will only exchange books with other branches.
Other libraries, particularly university libraries, may have a much larger network. At school or at home, students can use the online card catalog to borrow books from university libraries around the country. This can significantly alter the degree to which students are able to research subjects thoroughly. Schools with poor libraries may be able to supplement student needs by offering participation in interlibrary loan. While it can take a few weeks to get a book they need, this can be a great way for students to find what they need. There are also some library loan programs for periodicals, although there may be an associated copy fee.
One thing common to most online card catalog programs is that people must go through or be a member of a library in order to participate. It is usually not possible to borrow a book from “anywhere”. When these programs are in place, the requested book is sent to the library of which a person is a member or participant and will be returned to the same library. Different checkout duration rules may apply, and hefty fines may apply if the book is not returned in perfect condition.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
