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Help, Guides and Instructions: The Online Catalog

This Research Guide helps patrons of the NWC Library make the most of their library experience by introducing important electronic resources and collections available to them. It serves as a starting place to learn how to use the library online search too

The NWW Library Online Catalog

The Online Catalog provides access to both subscription-based and freely-accessible materials; including articles, books, videos, digital media and other resources available through the NWC Library.  All of these materials can be searched from a search box on the Learning Commons and Library homepage. This Google-like search box is a discovery tool known as Primo VE.  Feel free to call this tool the online catalog, the library collections, or Primo VE.   

Contact:  libref@usnwc.edu

  • What is the Library Online Catalog
  • What does the catalog contain
  • How is the catalog accessed
  • Signing in is optional

Searching for Books in Print

  • Basic searching
  • Starting a new search
  • Filters, facets, and tweaking results
  • Search results
  • Using the detailed record
  • Advanced searching

Citation Management: Using RefWorks from the Online Catalog

RefWorks is a citation management tool that the NWC Library has access to.  RefWorks can be accessed from the records in the Online Catalog.  Search the online catalog and save citations to assist in the process of creating bibliographies. 

Click on the link below for more information:

Guided Search Options

Tweaking Your Results

The Online Catalog uses built in guided filters for selecting options related to availability, resource type, date, author, subject, language, and other limiters. These filters are found on in the online catalog under a heading at the upper left of the screen that invites you to Tweak Your Results

In the information science environment, these filters are formally known as facets. They are a part of the search and discovery process in almost all systems designed for searching information.  Look for facets or filters near the main search boxes or search results.  They are usually to the left but may also be found by scrolling down in some platforms (information systems).

Finding Electronic Journal Literature

  • Basic searching for journal literature
  • Use subject keywords
  • Filters, facets, and tweaking search results
  • Access the journal article
  • Using the detailed record to email the article title 

Searching the Online Catalog for eBooks

  • Basic searching
  • Searching with keywords and book titles
  • Filters, facets, and tweaking results
  • Book title
  • Item information
  • Viewing online availability
  • Accessing the eBook online
  • Using eBook content