Writer's Choice Grade 12

Unit 23: Library Resources

Overview

In the past, library patrons used a card catalog, a cabinet filled with alphabetized index cards, to find the books and periodicals they needed. Today's libraries have their catalogs on computers. Libraries still have books and periodicals, but they also have movies, sound recordings, and Internet access. You can locate any item in the database by searching for the subject, author, title, or keyword. In most libraries, you can log in from home and search for a particular item when it is convenient for you.

Every item in a library is assigned a call number. The call number can be based on the Dewey decimal system or the Library of Congress system. The Dewey decimal system uses numbers to identify ten broad categories and numerous subcategories separated into specific topics. Books are filed by number and then by author. The Library of Congress system uses letter combinations to identify twenty general categories and many subcategories.

When you begin to search for information, consult general references such as encyclopedias and dictionaries. More detailed information is available in specialized reference sources that target specific topics. Finally, you can use the Internet as a resource, but be careful to select reputable sites sponsored by the government or educational institutions.