Library Lingo: Volume 2

Our second installment of library-speak...

Database – library databases allow you to find articles in magazines and newspapers, and information from encyclopedias, dictionaries, directories, manuals, and books in electronic format. See the Library’s database page.

Dewey decimal classification - classification system in which books and other materials are subject categories, with further decimal division for narrower subject categories, using a notation of numbers. More information on the Dewey Decimal system can be found here.

Electronic book – an electronic version of a printed book. EBooks can be viewed online from any computer connected to the Internet. See NetLibrary on the Library’s database page.

Full text – complete text of an item, such as an article from a magazine, book, or encyclopedia, available in electronic format. Full text is usually in PDF or HTML format. See eJournal finder to see what full-text magazines and newspapers are available through APL.

Full-text database – database that allows for viewing, emailing, printing, or saving of an entire article directly from a computer. A full-text database may not have every listed article available in full-text format.

Hold - service provided by the Library when an item is secured for a customer and held at the checkout desk. Items can be transferred between Library locations for customer pick up.

Holdings - books, periodicals, and other materials owned by a Library location.