1. Basic Information - Title, author, date, and cover image.
2. Tools - Use the Citation link to copy the MLA, APA, or Chicago citation for your paper. Always double-check since computer-generated citations often have errors! Email, copy the URL (Permalink), or print the detailed record to retrieve later.
3. Sign-In - Sign in using your MSJC email and password to request items that are not available at the campus you use or are currently checked out to someone else. Items can be delivered between the campuses or held for you when they are returned.
4. Location/Status/Call Number - Which library owns the item, if it is currently available, and where it is shelved. Write down the call number to find it on the shelf. See the box below to learn how to read call numbers!
5. Subject Headings - The main subjects describing what the book is about. Click to launch a new search for more items with the same subject.
6. Description and Contents - Scan the description and table of contents to evaluate whether the book has information you can use for your research.
7. Virtual Browse - View items that are on the shelf near this item; similar materials are usually shelved near each other.
The MSJC Libraries use the Library of Congress call number system, made up of a combination of letters and numbers. It may feel confusing at first but visit our page on Understanding Call Numbers and you will find a full description of what the numbers mean and how to break them down so you can find your book on the shelf.
Still confused? Ask one of the MSJC Librarians, and we will be happy to walk to the shelves with you!
OneSearch searches for books, articles, videos, and other items available at the MSJC Libraries. The OneSearch search box is located on the MSJC Libraries Homepage.
Use the Books tab to limit the format of your search to books and ebooks only. You can also find books and ebooks using the OneSearch tab, but your results may be overwhelming because books will be mixed in with numerous other formats.
Type your key search terms in the Books search box and click the Search button.
Tip: Your search will be more successful if you type in only the primary keywords for your topic or main words from a specific book title. Avoid using full sentences and/or common or neutral terms (the, a, an, etc.)
Search Results
The library catalog will display your results in order of the closest matches to your search terms. That means the most relevant items should appear near the top of the list. Browse your results and click on the title of a book that interests you to get to the detailed record screen.
See the column on the left for a description of each numbered area.
