Question:
Our answer:
WorldCat is a resource for searching multiple library collections at the same time and helps you gather information needed for an ILL request, such as the OCLC number. Including the OCLC number in your request helps ensure that it will be processed more quickly and for the correct edition.
To search WorldCat, first head to the WorldCat website.
Enter the title or ISBN of the item in the search bar and click ‘Search.’ You can access the Advanced Search options by clicking the slider icon to the right of the search bar.
Once you’ve clicked “Search,” your results screen should look similar to the image below:
What’s important to note here is that two formats appeared for this example title. The OCLC number will differ between the eBook vs the print book. To place an ILL request, you will want to view the record for the print book.
Click the title for the record you need:
Within the item record, select "Show more information" to see details about the item, including the OCLC number.
Something to keep in mind is that the more copies that are available at different libraries, the easier it is to obtain.
To see how many libraries hold a copy of the text go to the “Find a Copy at a Library” section and change the Filter from “Any Format” to “Print Book.” If the book has multiple editions, make sure you are in the record for the correct edition and change “Any Edition” to “This Edition.”
Below each item record in the section “Find a Copy at a Library,” you can see which libraries currently own the item.
If the item you’re looking for is exclusively in other countries, try submitting a scan request for the section you need or reaching out to your Subject Librarian to see about acquiring a copy.
Last Reviewed: 4/22/2025