Library Catalog
Search STCC | Search Western MA | Search Central MA
The Library's online catalog is often the most useful place to begin your research. Use it to find materials when you know an author's name, an item title, or a subject heading. It also allows keyword searching, which is often the best way to start.
The drawback to keyword searching is that though it often identifies many useful items, you may get results that don't match your need.. It is best to keep your search as simple as possible, especially at the beginning. You can always focus it later. If you need assistance in to make your search more specific, please ask a library staff member for help.
Keyword searching allows you to combine words and phrases.
Another way to search is to identify common subject headings. Subject headings are assigned to materials by librarians, and will probably give you more precise results. Some useful subject headings follow. Note: this list is only meant to suggest some of the many subject headings which can be used.
Call Numbers
Sometimes, browsing by call number can bring successful results. Since similar items are shelved together, you can look in a small section of the stacks to locate relevant material.
For further information, the Springfield Library has put together a helpful page of searching tips for theWMARS catalog.