Library catalogs have an obvious limitation that doesn't seem to be discussed very often.
By and large, library catalogs are limited to searching for physical resources held by the user's library. This makes sense because online catalogs evolved from card catalogs, which were used to describe local holdings.
I know that there are exceptions to this. Many libraries participate in resource sharing consortia, and many libraries make an effort to include records for e-resources in their catalogs. But, generally, most default catalog searches are looking for physical items held by the library.
Why would a knowledgeable user want to use the local library catalog when there is a vast array of resources accessible by other means? (Note: that's not a rhetorical question).
Bernie Sloan
Sora Associates
Bloomington, IN
Received on Thu Feb 12 2009 - 16:17:33 EST